New Zealand coach Graham Henry admitted the half-back decision was the toughest to make in his team selection for Saturday’s final Test against the British & Irish Lions.
Byron Kelleher got the nod ahead of arch rival Justin Marshall, who will be heading for Leeds Tykes next season.
"It was the most difficult decision to make," confirmed Henry. "Justin will play – he will finish the Test match which we think is very important. He’s been a great player for the All Blacks over the last decade and we’re trying to achieve two objectives really.
"One is to play well in this Test match and I’m sure he will help in doing that, and secondly we want to give him a big farewell. He may play again for the All Blacks so it may not be a farewell, who knows?"
