In an effort to address the problems that have plagued the All Blacks this season, the legendary Wayne Smith has joined the team ahead of Bledisloe II.
Having only won one of their previous seven games in the capital, New Zealand’s goal for this week is to break their winless streak in Wellington.
But the biggest concern for Scott Robertson’s team has been their struggles in the second half, which have persisted since the new head coach took over.
In all five of their Rugby Championship games, they have failed to outscore their opponents after the half; their most recent setback came against the Wallabies.
Quick start
After 15 minutes, the All Blacks jumped out to a 21-0 lead, but they were unable to sustain that intensity and tempo and came dangerously close to losing.
In the end, Robertson’s team prevailed, but it carried over a pattern for the three-time world winners in 2024.
Before the rematch with Australia, Smith has been enlisted, so he can assist the head coach when needed. Smith has a role with New Zealand Rugby.
The coach, Jason Holland, told reporters, “It’s been awesome.” Smithy arrived late last night, behaving like a fly on the wall while I and everyone else pick his brain about all the insignificant things he has witnessed.
“He says he lives on the Gold Coast and doesn’t watch much football anymore, but based on all the little tidbits he’s given you, he’s all over it.”
Before Bledisloe II, the All Blacks give a concerning update on Jordie Barrett.
Known as “The Professor,” Smith has played a significant role in All Blacks rugby for more than ten years and is considered as one of the game’s greatest minds.
Before leading the Black Ferns to victory in a major international competition in 2022, he was a member of the backroom teams of Steve Hansen and Graham Henry that won the World Cup in 2011 and 2015.
“Great impact on us”
Back three standout Will Jordan remarked, “I haven’t had too much to do with Wayne in the past but he’s got a great record that speaks for himself.”
“In this game, everyone you speak with has a great deal of respect for him and what he’s accomplished. This morning, I shook his hand and bid him good morning.
It will be pleasant to get advice from him. Working behind the scenes with the coaches and players, he’s a terrific man to have. He will undoubtedly have a significant impact on us.
Sam Cane and TJ Perenara will be playing their final Tests on home soil in New Zealand, which will give the All Blacks even more motivation as they attempt to improve their Wellington record.
After spending the most of the previous 14 years playing at Sky Stadium, Perenara has grown to be one of the Hurricanes’ favourites, so it will be quite poignant for him.
“We discuss Wellington, but there are a few other factors related to those boys running out,” Holland remarked. “We must seize this chance.”
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