Sonny Bill Williams will start at inside centre for the All Blacks against the USA in Chicago on Saturday.

Williams will make his first Test appearance since the 2011 World Cup, having spent the past two years playing rugby league.

Coach Steve Hansen has made 12 changes to the starting XV that beat the Wallabies 28-27 in Brisbane, with captain Richie McCaw being rested.

Only fullback Israel Dagg, wing Cory Jane and Kieran Read survive in a team consisting largely of fringe players and reserves.

Dan Carter is set to make his return from injury off the bench, with Aaron Cruden starting at 10 following a two-match suspension.

The match at Soldier Field, the 61,500-seat home of the NFL’s Chicago Bears, is officially sold out.

All Blacks – 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Ryan Crotty, 12 Sonny Bill Williams, 11 Charles Piutau, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 TJ Perenara, 8 Kieran Read (c), 7 Sam Cane, 6 Victor Vito, 5 Patrick Tuipulotu, 4 Jeremy Thrush, 3 Charlie Faumuina, 2 Nathan Harris, 1 Joe Moody.
Subs: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Wyatt Crockett, 18 Ben Franks, 19 Brodie Retallick, 20 Liam Messam, 21 Augustine Pulu, 22 Dan Carter, 23 Julian Savea.

Photo: Phil Walter/Getty Images