Naholo makes miracle return

Waisake Naholo has been included in the All Blacks' 31-man World Cup squad after recovering from a broken leg.

The winger was ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering the injury during his Test debut last month, but returned to his native Fiji where herbal medicine reportedly got him back on his feet.

Nehe Milner-Skudder has also been selected, having impressed in the first two Tests, with Cory Jane, Israel Dagg and Charles Piutau all missing out.

Lima Sopoaga, who made his Test debut against the Boks at Ellis Park, was overlooked, with Colin Slade named as the third flyhalf.

Among the forwards, coach Steve Hansen chose just three locks, cutting Jeremy Thrush, while Codie Taylor was selected as the third-choice hooker ahead of Hika Elliot.

All Blacks' 31-man World Cup squad:

Forwards – Kieran Read, Victor Vito, Liam Messam, Jerome Kaino, Sam Cane, Richie McCaw (c), Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Dane Coles, Keven Mealamu, Codie Taylor, Wyatt Crockett, Tony Woodcock, Charlie Faumuina, Ben Franks, Owen Franks.

Backs – Ben Smith, Waisake Naholo, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Julian Savea, Malakai Fekitoa, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Ma'a Nonu, Colin Slade, Dan Carter, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith, TJ Perenara, Tawera Kerr-Barlow.

Steve Hansen: All Blacks are contenders, not defenders

2015 World Cup squads

Photo: Hannah Peters/Getty Images

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