The All Black selectors say they'll be resting a few players again this week in the Tri-Nations opener against the Springboks in Wellington.
The South Africans have copped some criticism after deciding to leave 21 players at home for the away leg of the series because of reported injuries.
All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith says Brad Thorn, Keiren Read, Owen Franks and Keven Mealamu are unlikley to play this week as they continue to recover from a heavy workload during the Super Rugby season.
Smith says their situation is different to the Boks.
Meanwhile Cory Jane is the only one of the injured group in contention for selection this week.