Departing All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams is set to play two more games for New Zealand before leaving for Japan.
Coach Steve Hansen has confirmed the All Blacks selectors changed their stance on Williams after centre Conrad Smith was ruled out for six weeks with an eye injury.
SBW and his Chiefs team-mates were not included in the 28-man wider training squad which was named on Sunday due to their participation in the Super Rugby Final but Hansen said will likely play in the first two matches of the Rugby Championship against Australia before leaving for Japan at the end of August .
"It's a no brainer," said Hansen. "He's the in form midfielder and he's been playing world class rugby."
New Zealand have also bolstered their coaching team with the re-appointment of Mick Byrne as their specialist skills coach.
"As we all know, Mick has a unique skill set which is invaluable so we are delighted to have him back in the team," commented Hansen.
The All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship will be named next Monday.
