Conrad Smith returns to bolster the All Blacks' midfield on Saturday © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: Sir Graham Henry | Ma'a Nonu | Conrad Smith

Tournaments/Tours: France tour

Teams: France | New Zealand

All Blacks centre Conrad Smith is backing himself to add some much-needed zest to their backline as they look to prevent a series loss against France in Wellington on Saturday. Smith returns to action after sitting out last weekend's 27-22 first Test loss to Les Bleus in Dunedin with injury, linking up with his powerhouse Hurricanes team-mate Ma'a Nonu.

The All Blacks coaching team, led by Graham Henry, have faced a barrage of criticism this week after their inexperienced side was outgunned at Carisbrook, with Smith set to provide some extra leadership in the backline. Up against Perpignan's pacy Maxime Mermoz, Smith is counting on his enthusiasm to power an improved midfield effort.

"I'm a pretty enthusiastic sort of guy, I know I'll bring a lot of energy," said Smith, who has recovered from a hamstring strain to line up for his 25th test. "It's the way I have to play to make up for some other limitations in my game. The team just have to step it up a level and bring an edge we didn't have on Saturday night."

Smith is relishing taking on the French, whose style of play and flair players inspired him to pursue his rugby career despite reservations over his size. With Nonu and Smith paired up once again the All Blacks have mirrored the French selection, with the smaller Mermoz slotting in alongside the burly Damien Traille.

"I loved the attitude and flair they (France) brought to the game, it was nice for a guy like myself who was always a lot smaller than everyone else. It was encouraging," said Smith. "He's (Nonu) a player I've spent a lot of time with so slotting back, it doesn't feel like I've been out for long or missed much. We're confident we can fix the things that let us down last week."

Smith's return could provide his side with a cutting edge that was missing as they were outscored three tries to two by the French last weekend, with coach Henry hoping that Smith's experience and leadership could provide a much needed boost to his under-fire side.

"He's a very experienced centre, he's got a combination with Ma'a Nonu," Henry said. "He's a talker, he's a leader and he's had very good form right though the year. It's good to have an experienced player like that come back, we hoped he was going to be ready."