Veteran halfback Piri Weepu has been recalled to the All Blacks’ squad for the remaining Rugby Championship matches.

Weepu was named in the 28-man squad for the matches in Argentina and South Africa after a leg stress fracture ruled out TJ Perenara for at least six weeks.

Weepu was dropped after the June series against France and told to work on his speed and fitness.

The selectors have also named injured captain Richie McCaw in the squad, though coach Steve Hansen says there is no chance he can overcome his medial ligament knee injury in time for the match against Argentina in La Plata on September 29.

Hansen said his best chance of making the team to play South Africa in Johannesburg a week later was by travelling with the team and getting his treatment from the medical staff.

If the team decides he won’t be ready for the South Africa game, Matt Todd will join the squad.

Tom Taylor has been called in as cover for the injured Dan Carter.

All Blacks squad: Israel Dagg, Charles Piutau, Julian Savea, Ben Smith, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Cruden, Tom Taylor, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Aaron Smith, Piri Weepu, Kieran Read, Sam Cane, Richie McCaw, Steven Luatua, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Jeremy Thrush, Sam Whitelock, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Owen Franks, Ben Franks, Tony Woodcock, Dane Coles, Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu.