Dan Carter is set to return for the All Blacks at Murrayfield

Carter, 25, is expected to play in Edinburgh after being rested for the 108-13 victory against Portugal.

"It's a very important week. It's our toughest pool game and we are taking it very seriously," he said.

"They will be up for it physically. It will be good to get a feel for that. The defence will have to be top-notch to stop scoring opportunities."

Scotland face Romania on Tuesday, with speculation suggesting coach Frank Hadden will play a weakened side against the All Blacks ahead of a possible qualification decider against Italy next week.

Carter said: "Obviously I would like to play their best team but it is their decision and theirs to make.

"It won't change the way we prepare."

Nick Evans took Carter's place for the win over Portugal in Lyon on Saturday, and the stand-in scored 33 points.

But Carter is expected to return to face Scotland.

"I would like to play in this one especially - it's our toughest pool game," he said.

"At the end of the day, I have to leave it up to the coaches. It is about the depth of the squad and maybe it is important that the other guys play as well.

"I think it is reasonably important to keep combinations together but you need to keep everyone playing together."