All Blacks push on McCaw's button
SPOTLIGHT: The All Blacks have recently acquired the services of former captain Richie McCaw.
New Zealand have called on McCaw for inspiration ahead of their second Rugby Championship Test against South Africa, saying on Tuesday they want to “go to another level”.
The two-time World Cup-winning skipper McCaw joined the All Blacks squad in Wellington ahead of Saturday’s rematch, after the home side edged a tight contest 24-17 at Eden Park.
Midfield back Quinn Tupaea said McCaw’s presence had already given the players a lift.
Tupaea, who scored the final try to keep the fast-finishing Springboks at bay at Eden Park, is wary that the visitors will be highly motivated to reverse the result.
New Zealand do not have the same obvious incentives as last Saturday, when they were playing to extend their 31-year unbeaten record at Eden Park, as well as honouring the 100th match for flanker Ardie Savea.
“We need to go to another level,” Tupaea said.
“There was a lot of emotion last week, given the occasion with Ardie and Eden Park, so we’ve got Richie in camp this week.
“We’re drawing a bit of inspiration from him and the history there. It’s pretty crazy seeing him in the environment; it’s the first time I’ve met him.
“He just gives us confidence, gives us some inspiration.”
Tupaea anticipated that South Africa would play a more attack-minded game after coach Rassie Erasmus made seven changes to his starting side, including five in the backs.
The young back division will be spearheaded by resourceful flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, in place of more conservative playmaker Handre Pollard.
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“They’ve got a few ‘ballers’ in their backline, a few guys that play with confidence and like to move the ball around,” Tupaea said.
“Just given the backline they named, they might look to play a little bit more. Rassie’s showing he’s pretty prepared to make changes and back his squad.”
The All Blacks will name their team on Thursday.
Wing Caleb Clarke has recovered from injury and been added to New Zealand’s squad this week.
He is a strong candidate to play his first Test of the year, potentially replacing Emoni Narawa, who suffered injured ribs after scoring the opening try in Auckland.
