Get Newsletter

All Blacks still chasing perfection

The reigning world champions are just two wins away from setting a new record (18 consecutive wins) and they have secured this year's Rugby Championship title after only four rounds.

ADVERTISEMENT

Ahead of their Round Six encounter against the Springboks this weekend in Durban, Retallick told reporters that they are always setting new challenges for themselves and a "perfect 80" is one of them.

"We probably have not put a complete 80-minute performance and at times it has been a real arm-wrestle," said Retallick.

All Blacks still chasing perfection"Like the weekend [36-17 win over Argentina] where we probably let it slip. It is fair to say we are still looking to dominate for a full 80 and that is a challenge in itself."

Retallick added: "We don't want to drop a game. We played these teams [Argentina and South Africa] in New Zealand and now we are playing them in their own backyards. 

"It is something that we want to be able to prove – that we can travel and also win. That is another motivating factor."

Meanwhile, All Black veteran Jerome Kaino has rejoined the All Blacks squad in Durban ahead of the Kings Park showdown. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Kaino missed his team's win over Argentina in Buenos Aires because of a shoulder injury, but he is set to regain his place in the team for the clash against the Boks.

"It is great to have him [Kaino] back in the squad," said Retallick. 

"No doubt he will be fresh and ready to go. He keeps the standards high and makes sure no one is slipping. 

"He has got a huge calmness and the players have a lot of respect for him."

ADVERTISEMENT

By Warren Fortune, in Durban

@FortuneWarren

@rugby365com

All Blacks still chasing perfection

Join free

Boks Office | Episode 32 | How To Win Europe

Round 12 Highlights | PWR 2024/25

Bristol Bears vs Gloucester-Hartpury | PWR 2024/25 | Full Match Replay

Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo vs Kobelco Kobe Steelers | Japan Rugby League One 2024/25 | Full Match

Edinburgh vs Brython | Celtic Challenge 2024/25 | Match Highlights

Yokohama Canon Eagles vs Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo | Japan Rugby League One 2024/25 | Full Match Replay

Global Schools Challenge | Day 2 Replay

AUSTRALIA vs USA behind the scenes | HSBC SVNS Embedded | E04

Write A Comment