All Blacks management expect to know more about Umaga's future at the World Cup on Wednesday, when the swelling on his left knee has subsided further.

Nonu made his Test debut alongside Umaga in New Zealand's first match of the season against England in June, but had to wait until last Saturday for his second appearance.

He will start against the Canadians in a centre partnership with Daniel Carter, who assumes the kicking duties after fly-half Carlos Spencer missed three of his four attempts against the Italians.

In Umaga's absence, Spencer has been awarded the vice-captaincy and is one of only six players Mitchell has retained in the starting XV.

Mils Muliaina moves from full-back to the wing, allowing Leon MacDonald his first All Blacks start of the year, while Australia-born Steve Devine will start at scrum-half.

Mitchell has rotated his entire front row, with props Carl Hoeft and Kees Meeuws to start either side of hooker Mark Hammett.

Rodney So'oialo comes into number eight and Marty Holah starts on the open-side, with Ritchie McCaw relegated to the bench.

Involved in his first Test match, hooker Corey Flynn will start from the bench.