Kelleher sports his new colours

The scrum-half has been hindered by a catalogue of injuries and has not started an international this year.

His most recent setback came when he tweaked his hamstring while warming up at half-time during New Zealand's pool match against Canada.

He said: "I've had some unlucky injury breaks but I know I'm good enough to be here and I'm waiting for my chance."

Kelleher's last start in an All Black jersey came in June 2002 against Fiji.

Since then the 26-year-old has seen others pass him in the pecking order and is now battling for a starting berth with Justin Marshall and Steve Devine.

Injuries open doors for other players to show their potential Byron Kelleher

However, neither Marshall or Devine have convinced in their World Cup outings in the number nine shirt, and Kelleher will be looking to impress against Canada.

"It is one of the most frustrating injuries to have in rugby," he said of his latest niggle.

"I was probably too fizzed up and strode out one time too many and tore the hamstring.

"They all had a good laugh at me, and it's understandable, but at the end of the day they all know it was bad luck."

And as if to help put the past behind him, Kelleher has announced that he will be playing his rugby with Waikato from now on.

"I think it's time in my life for a change of direction. Otago has been a great place for me but I feel my rugby has got a wee bit stale," he added.

"I needed a change and Waikato will defintely suit me."