Rugby World Cup 2019: All Blacks brace for Typhoon Faxai fallout

The All Blacks' World Cup fate could be taken out of their own hands, as Japan continues to bear the brunt of Typhoon Faxai, which has left a trail of destruction across the country.

If it continues, World Cup pool matches could be affected and have a major impact on who the All Blacks could meet later in the competition.

If the weather continues to deteriorate to the point where a game couldn't be played it would be cancelled and, with no rescheduled date, be deemed a draw.

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"We need a little bit of luck with that in typhoon season," said coach Steve Hansen.

That would mean easier games against the likes of Namibia may not be a certain four points.

"It's part of our planning is understanding what we're coming to and we're well aware of what we could get."

All Blacks management is preparing for all scenarios that may come their way.

"They're things we know about and have planned for, so no more concerns. All the Christchurch boys are waiting for the first earthquake to give everyone else a bit of a hard time."

But while conditions may be unpredictable, one thing Steve Hansen can be sure of is the expectation on his side.

As crowd numbers attest, the All Blacks have been comfortably the most popular side to arrive so far. Hansen is all too aware they enter the tournament as overwhelming favourites.

"You're expected to win all the time so you have to make a choice whether you sink or stand up."

 It's a challenge captain Kieran Read has faced- and overcome - twice before.

He's confident they can meet it head on once again as they vie for World Cup history.

"It's exciting times," said Read. "This is the reason you play this game is to be involved here and i can't wait to get into it."

That will start at their first training base in Kashiwa, as the All Blacks ramp up preparations for the Springboks in Yokohama in just over a week.

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