Despite the Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup being locked away for another season, All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick was clear there would be no shortage of motivation this weekend with the record for consecutive international Test wins looming on the horizon.
The number stands at 17, and wins against South Africa this weekend and Australia the following would see the All Blacks claim a record they currently share with the hosts.
“It’s a great thing to be able to try to contest,” Retallick admitted.
“We have to get this week right to bring it level, and we don’t want to drop a game.
“Obviously we’ve played the team in New Zealand and now we want to do it in their own backyard, so that’s something we want to be able to prove – that we can travel and also win. That’s another motivating factor.”
The All Blacks greeted talisman forward Jerome Kaino at the airport, who is now fit and raring to go after being sidelined by a shoulder injury.
The veteran flanker is a welcome addition to the squad, his impact undeniable both on and off the field.
“He keeps an eye on the standards and makes sure no one’s slipping, but also he has a huge calmness and everyone respects him.”
Retallick made particular mention of fellow lock Patrick Tuipulotu’s efforts against the Pumas in Buenos Aires.
“He had a great outing. He’s physical in defense and we all know he can carry the ball.
“It’s been a long time since he played 80 minutes, and he did it extremely well.”
Meanwhile, fullback Ben Smith wouldn't hear any suggestion of rest as the All Blacks move towards the end of a long Rugby Championship campaign.
“I’m feeling good and the body’s all in one piece,” said Smith.
“With the Rugby Championship it’s quite good that you get two weeks of games and then you get a week off.
“I think that works well for most of the players.”
The New Zealanders face a short turnaround following their commanding win over the Pumas in Argentina, with an abbreviated build-up to their game against the Springboks on Sunday (NZT) sure to test their stocks.
“Early in the week, recovery is going to be big for us. Making sure we get our bodies right and get into our normal pattern.”
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