Bledisloe III not your average game: Read
Oct 21, 2016 - 4:36 AM All Blacks skipper Kieran Read admits the prospect of securing a record 18th straight Test win makes the third Bledisloe clash more than just another game.The world champions will take on Australia at Eden Park on Saturday knowing a win will guarantee them a slice of rugby history, as well as a Bledisloe clean sweep.
It's not the first time the Kiwi side has been in this position, having blown opportunities to claim the record in 1969 and in 2014.
On that occasion, it was also the Wallabies who tripped the All Blacks up, snaring a 12-all draw in a dour contest in Sydney.
The All Blacks shied away from focusing on the record tilt two years ago but have embraced the challenge this time around, putting the streak in firm focus around camp.
Read, 30, told reporters on Friday his side were well aware of the importance of the match and were preparing accordingly.
"We've learned that it isn't just another game," Read said.
"When you've got something on the line, the opposition will raise their game and we've certainly got to raise ours.
"It's going to put a bit of extra spice into it."
The Wallabies have made a host of the changes for the clash, with Bernard Foley moving into the fly-half position for the benched Quade Cooper.
Reece Hodge moves from the wing to his favoured position of inside centre, while loose forward David Pocock returns from injury to start on the bench.
Read said the Australian loose forward trio of Dean Mumm, Michael Hooper and Lopeti Timani would give the side a much-needed dose of offensive thrust.
"They've got a bit more confidence and they're playing a better brand of footy as well," Read said.
"Their loose forwards are picked as strong ball carriers so it gives them a lot of go-forward, and we know how dangerous their backs are."
The Crusaders loose forward was also seen with bandages on his right hand, but told reporters it was no more than a niggle.
Source: AAP
No one has shouted yet.
Be the first!
Be the first!
Related News
- All Blacks skipper Read needs back surgery Dec 13
- All Blacks beat Wales to end tour unbeaten Nov 25
- Read out for All Blacks with back injury Nov 23
- Sonny Bill praised for new kicking skills Nov 19
- All Blacks hold on for win over Scotland Nov 18
- Flying winger Ioane told to stay grounded Nov 16
- Sonny Bill admits to rules blunder Nov 16
- Tuipulotu to face judiciary for tackle Nov 16
- Taylor replaces Coles for All Blacks Nov 16
- All Blacks little changed for Scotland Nov 16
- Hansen irate at big screen intrusion Nov 14
- All Blacks win brutal midweek encounter Nov 14