Coles (30) has not started a test this year but he is over concussion problems and other niggling injuries and will wear the black No2 jersey with pride at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
''It will be pretty special. Everyone knows the history of my season this year. So to get back in the black jersey is pretty cool and it happens to be my 50th, so yeah, I'm excited,'' Coles said.
''It is just like my first test all over again.''
He first played for the All Blacks in 2012, coming off the bench against Scotland, and became the first choice-hooker for the side two years later. He has evolved into a mix of toughness and speed.
But for three months this year, Coles thought his career was heading to a dead end as he struggled to shake off concussion issues.
''From what I have been through I have some structures in place to deal with it. I obviously had a bit of a setback last week.
''I have learnt some lessons with all that time I had with the Hurricanes. I just had to take it on. I had to deal with it to get it through. The excitement of getting back into the All Black jersey was a huge factor as well.''
He said concussion issues did not stop him from giving his best on the field. He simply had to confront it when stepping on to the playing paddock, especially when he picked up a slight head knock after the Hurricanes season ended.
''I just took it day by day and had a positive mindset and knew I would get there.''
''There is always that bit of fear. But it is about not letting that fear control you. When I'm out there training and doing contact I'm not thinking about my head ... what I have learned is live in the moment.''
Coles admitted he was just a young pup when he started out in 2012 but the 50 tests had come around quickly. It was humbling to return.
He could have played last weekend but management decided to play it safe.
''I have been training with the team. And have been doing everything normally. Just needed a wee bit more fitness.''