Kiwi rugby league star Shaun Johnson predicts the All Blacks would smash the Kangaroos in a proposed cross-code rugby blockbuster.
On Thursday, Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga and NZ Rugby confirmed the two parties were in "series negotiations" over a hybrid 14-a-side rules clash which would take place in December after State of Origin and potential Bledisloe Cup tests.
The idea was first proposed in 2017, with over $50 million reportedly offered for the Kangaroos and All Blacks to play in Japan after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
The idea was quickly quashed, but talks are once again heating up.
The Australian cites former NZ Kiwis rugby league international Dean Lonergan as the mastermind behind the idea, although he refused to comment when contacted by Newshub.
Johnson said he'd back the All Blacks to win, although he'd prefer they face the Kiwis instead.
"I would prefer the All Blacks to play the Kiwis to be honest, I think that makes more sense," he says.
"I think if you're going to play international, obviously I'm all about growing New Zealand Rugby League's brand - not necessarily the Australian Kangaroos' brand.
"I think the All Blacks would pump the Wallabies, pump the Kangaroos or whatever it's going to be. I don't know about the Kiwis though."
Kangaroos vice-captain Daly Cherry-Evans supports the idea and would love to take part if it goes ahead.
"Anything like that where there is an opportunity to grow the game of rugby league, in particular in a time like now, I think is a great idea. You ask any player that is looking to play for Australia, it doesn't matter if it is in late November or early December, we are going to put our hands up.
"I have always maintained that I would love to play rep football for as long as I am up to it. If my form provides to be there I would love to play something like that. It would be unreal.
"It would be great to look back on and experience something like that. I have got absolutely no idea how it would work but it sounds fun so I would be up for it."
