All Blacks playmaker Dan Carter will look to contain the emotions when he runs out for his first Test since the injury that ended his World Cup last year.

Carter is back in the No.10 jersey for the start of the three-Test series against Ireland in Auckland on Saturday night.

It will be his 86th cap and a record 71st as an All Blacks five-eighth.

It will also be the 30-year-old’s first appearance since the pool fixture against France at the same Eden Park venue on September 24, after which he suffered a groin injury during kicking practice.

“Obviously, it will be emotional,” he said on Thursday.

“But I can’t let that override things because I have to be very clear calling the moves and be pretty calm and collected.”

Carter caused some concern when he winced after one particular shot at goal for the Crusaders in their big Super Rugby win over the Highlanders last Friday, but he said he pulled up well after the game.

“I’m really think my injury is behind me now,” he said.

“I’ve had a full week’s training and everything is fine, which is really encouraging.”

While Carter will bring bags of experience, his partner at halfback, Aaron Smith, will be one of three debutants, along with lock Brodie Retallick and winger Julian Savea.

Smith is noted for his slick passing and Carter was looking forward to the extra time and space he will potentially get.

“Hopefully, the forwards will give him that good go-forward ball so he can distribute the ball well and let us backs control that gain line,” he said.

“He’s also got a great running game, too, to complement his passing game.”

Carter said communication would be the key for the new combination and he would do his bit to guide Smith around.

“Hopefully, he doesn’t find me too bossy,” he said.

“I’ll be there really to try to help him have the game of his life.”