All Blacks star Daniel Carter is injured and won't play in this week's World Cup match with Japan.

Carter, who suffered a sore back in the opening clash against Tonga, was replaced by Canterbury's Colin Slade in the starting 15, with halfback Jimmy Cowan coming on to the bench, and Piri Weepu moving out to provide firstBfive cover.

However, he pulled up sore at an indoor training session this morning so management made the decision not to risk him.

Henry will send out a largely predictable starting XV to face the Japanese.

The final run on team are: Mils Muliaina, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Richard Kahui, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis; Adam Thomson, Richie McCaw (capt), Jerome Kaino, Sam, Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.

Reserves: Andrew Hore, John Afoa, Ali Williams, Victor Vito, Jimmy Cowan, Piri Weepu, Sonny Bill Williams.

Story by: Paradise Tudrau
Source: Stuff.co.nz