VIDEO: All Blacks to crumble against transformed Argentina?

SPOTLIGHT: Veteran All Black lock Brodie Retallick says the Pumas have become a different beast over the last few years.

The All Blacks are currently in Argentina preparing for their Rugby Championship opener in Mendoza on Saturday.

It’s a tricky first fixture of the year for Ian Foster’s side, especially after some of the Pumas’ performances last year.

Michael Cheika’s side were horribly inconsistent across their Test matches in 2022, but they did record some notable wins, which included beating the All Blacks in New Zealand for the first time ever.

Retallick has noticed some changes in the way the Argentinians approach Test matches.

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“The way they carry the ball, the speed of their ruck, especially the way they defend. They defend a lot differently than the Wallabies or South Africa, so that poses different challenges in itself and their skill set has come a long way,” said Retallick.

“They’re a far better team than what we initially saw.

“They’ve grown across the park, skill sets, physicality, the way they carry the ball and their set-piece is still a strong one.

“It’s full credit to the work they’ve been putting in and it’s paid dividends.”

Meanwhile, Retallick has backed fellow lock Josh Lord to produce the goods at international level after making his return from a bad run of injuries.

“He’s a great player, a big man,” said Retallick.

“He’s the tallest one out of all of us and probably the heaviest as well, so he’s got a great skill set for a big man and fast.

“I’m sure when he gets the opportunity he’s going to impose himself.”

On his team’s preparations for Saturday’s Test, Retallick added: “We had a good couple of days in Auckland before we left that was a bit more low-key.

“But to get out onto the field and at a bit more full speed, it’s great to be here.

“It’s the first time the team has been in Mendoza and the sun’s out, so we’re enjoying it.”

@AllBlacks