McCaw won't be risked against Samoa

Bruised: McCaw set to rest sore ribs

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw is expected to miss next week's Test against Samoa but should return for the Tri-Nations decider against Australia.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry revealed the news that McCaw was "still tender" after he bruised ribs in the 19-0 victory against South Africa in Cape Town and was not likely to play in Wednesday's Test in New Plymouth.

"He is keen to play but at the moment he's 50-50 and we won't risk him if he isn't right," Henry said, speaking to Wellington's Dominion Post.

Henry is already without full-back Leon MacDonald (concussion) and scrum-half Andy Ellis (rib) against what he sees as worthwhile outing, despite their opponents' weakened squad.

"The Test is an important part of our preparation for the Tri-Nations 'final' [September 13] in Brisbane, but we won't risk anybody who is questionable," added the coach.