But before Carter can weave his magic, their lineout and general play will need to improve dramatically after blundering defeats to South Africa in Bloemfontein and Durban.
In both they suffered fumbling panic attacks under the blitz berg rained on them from the radar boot of Morne Steyn when they failed to reach the high standards of a proud All Blacks tradition.
Hopefully that will change under the cool-headed guidance of the gifted Carter who returns from a snapped Achilles tendon with just one club and three provincial games behind him.
It should, for in each his confidence and class became more apparent in kicking for territory or bombing the opposition with up-and-unders to rival the pinpoint accuracy of Steyn.
Add to that his elusive running and ability to set up tries, and it’s been an impressive comeback after gutsy Stephen Donald’s failure to replicate his Super 14 form for the Chiefs at test level.
In fairness his wonky forwards and sometimes wayward halfbacks failed to give him the platform. Nevertheless with Carter back and young Aaron Cruden challenging for an end of year northern hemisphere tour, Donald’s international career is at risk.
Like Carter, Manawatu’s Cruden always seems to have time to execute. Furthermore he also has what appears to be an innate instinct for making the right decisions.
At a time when New Zealand rugby appears acutely short of brainpower, rising young stars like Cruden should be regarded as national treasures.
Another first-five catching the eye in Bay of Plenty’s 21-17 upset of Wellington was Mike Delaney, who gave a masterly performance with his boot and elusive running.
Bay of Plenty lead a fascinating Air New Zealand Cup as the only unbeaten team after three rounds, a tribute to their intelligence in playing to their strengths. That also applies to Canterbury, Tasman, Manawatu and Southland, who share two wins apiece with Wellington.
It’s an indictment of the Blues franchise that Auckland and North Harbour have just one win, while woeful Counties-Manukau are the only team yet to open their account.
Others who won’t be happy with their one win record after three games will be Hawke’s Bay, Otago, Taranaki, Northland and Waikato.
Meanwhile, having lost his first two Tri-Nations games to the All Blacks and Springboks, Australian coach Robbie Deans will be hoping Sydney’s home ground advantage will tip the scales against Graham Henry’s men this Saturday.
His scrum has improved and his backs are superior passers and ball handlers than the flat-footed All Blacks who have struggled to establish structure this year in Carter’s absence.
How much difference Carter’s return will make depends on the quality of ball his forwards can offer after their dismal efforts in South Africa.
My guess is the improvement will be marked with Richie McCaw due to hit his straps and inspire a team in dire need of confidence and smart tactical plan.
