Rugby-Carter rested as All Blacks filter back to domestic rugby

WELLINGTON, Sept 16 (Reuters) - All Blacks flyhalf Dan Carter is unlikely to play again before the end of year grand slam tour, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) said on Tuesday.

The All Blacks wrapped up the Tri-Nations and retained the Bledisloe Cup with a 28-24 victory over Australia in Brisbane on Saturday.

Flyhalf Carter, who is joining French side Perpignan on a six-month contract after the tour of Britain and Ireland in November, will only play for his provincial side Canterbury in the event of injuries to other players.

"We've looked at each player on a case-by-case basis," All Blacks manager Darren Shand said in a statement. "Canterbury's help in managing Dan's work load is much appreciated.

Locks Ali Williams and Brad Thorn will also be rested until the grand slam tour.

A number of All Blacks players, including Wellington scrumhalf Piri Weepu and prop Neemia Tialata, will be available for their provinces from this weekend.

A further 11 players will be released for the final round beginning on Oct. 2 and Richie McCaw, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Rodney So'oialo will be available from the quarter-finals.

The All Blacks squad for the end of year tour, which includes a test against Australia in Hong Kong en route to Britain, will be named on Oct. 26, the day after the provincial final.

(Reporting by Greg Stutchbury in Melbourne; Editing by Ed Osmond)