ABS too good for England - Dwyer

Australian Bob Dwyer has offered an independent view on the All Blacks versus England debate, believing Steve Hansen’s side have too much skill and power for their northern rivals.

Eddie Jones’ England will try to equal the All Blacks’ world record of 18 consecutive tier one test wins when they host Scotland in a crunch Six Nations game this weekend.

The merits of the All Blacks and England have been regularly discussed amidst frustration the worlds top two ranked teams won’t meet until next year, just a year out from the World Cup where New Zealand will look to win a third consecutive title.

Dwyer, the former Wallabies coach and never short of an opinion, told The Rugby Paper in England that the All Blacks had too many edges.

‘‘It might depend on home advantage because England tend to get the rub of the green at Twickenham, but right now I’d back New Zealand. They have got more players, especially through the Pacific Island connection, with footwork, agility and acceleration to open up defences – and as soon as they get in behind, you are in serious trouble,’’ Dwyer said.

‘‘They might [the All Blacks] open up the English defence if the referee insists on fast ball and they can’t slow it down.’’

Man-for-man, the All Blacks held advantages in most areas across the field.

Dwyer also suggested England equalling the All Blacks record would always be questioned because they hadn’t played New Zealand in that stretch of wins. Their last clashes were in 2014 when the All Blacks beat England three times in New Zealand and once in London.