Carter’s integration still undecided

New Zealand flyhalf Dan Carter came through unscathed after Canterbury’s 26-28 loss to Southland, despite taking one or two heavy knocks.

Carter was advised to play only 40 minutes as a gradual introduction could see Test rugby’s record points scorer play upwards of three quarters in his next match against Tasman.

"I think the plan is obviously a bit more game time, whether it's 60 or 80 [minutes], I'm not sure yet.

"I'll see how I pull up from this game, but just sticking to the plan of 40 [minutes], I probably could have played a bit longer [against Southland]," he said.

Since the 2011 Rugby World Cup semi-finals, Carter has played in 15 of the All Blacks last 36 Tests, while Cruden has started in 20 matches over this time.

Barrett has earned opening jerseys in four Tests in his 24 international career.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has indicated that Carter may feature in the third Bledisloe Cup match in Brisbane on October 18.