New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter is delighted to be back doing what he does best after having his World Cup dream cut short.
The 30-year-old suffered a groin injury during the pool stages - and subsequently spent five months away from the game recovering as his team-mates lifted the Webb Ellis trophy.
However, Carter was back on duty as the All Blacks crushed Ireland 42-10 in Auckland, kicking four penalties and three conversions.
And Carter was glad to be back out helping the All Blacks win matches once again.
"In the last three weeks the body has felt really good and back to full fitness, which is pleasing," said Carter.
"In the back of my mind this is where I always wanted to be; playing for the All Blacks and putting that black jersey on.
"It is what I do and love. Playing in the No.10 jersey and kicking goals. I've been pain free for the past few games. It is a big part of my game so it is great to have that ability back."
New Zealand are already planning for the retention of the World Cup they won last October, as highlighted by the debuts of Aaron Smith, Brodie Retalick and Julian Savea, who scored a hat-trick on his All Blacks bow.
As for Carter, he refuses to engage in a guessing game about whether or not he will be around for another shot at the World Cup.
"If I had a crystal ball I'd love to look in it and be there," he said.
"I guess with the joy and also the disappointment I had last season - of winning the World Cup but, obviously, not being out there playing in the later stages - I was just really keen to start this season fresh and make the most out of 2012.
"The World Cup was a great occasion but we have to move on from that."
