CORRECTED - CORRECTED-Rugby-McCaw return lifts All Blacks ahead of Tri-Natio

(Corrects date of match to July 18)

WELLINGTON, July 9 (Reuters) - The return of captain Richie McCaw from injury has given New Zealand a much-needed lift ahead of their Tri-Nations series opener against Australia on July 18.

The All Blacks struggled to produce their best last month when the flanker was out injured but the return of McCaw, Rodney So'oialo and Sitiveni Sivivatu has galvanised the side.

"They've made a difference already," New Zealand coach Graham Henry told reporters on Thursday.

"Their confidence rubs off on other people they know what they're about, they've been here before, they know what is required so they add a lot to the unit."

McCaw, who was cleared to return playing after injuring his knee, said he was ready to play again despite lacking match fitness.

"The first couple of games are hard work but you accept that and just get out and get into it," he said.

"I guess (I have) a bit of experience, having gone through it a couple of times.

"In a team like the All Blacks, you've got pretty good fellas around you and you only need to do your job. If you get that right, you know you'll perform reasonably well."