All Black captain Richie McCaw has made a full recovery from a knee injury and is available to play his 120th test against the Springbok.
Openside flanker Liam Messam welcomes the return of the inspirational skipper as they prepare to face their biggest challenge this year.
Richie McCaw is returning to the No.7 jersey.
McCaw's return to the starting lineup will see Sam Cane moving to the bench, while Charlie Faumuina will replace Owen Franks in the only change to the forwards.
This is the All Blacks' final match of the Investec Rugby Championship. The team named to play against South Africa includes six players with Māori heritage.
Head coach Steve Hansen says playing the Springboks at Ellis Park is a challenge, one the team is really looking forward to.
As for the Springboks, they've moved to downplay McCaw's potential return for this weekend's test in Johannesburg.