ABs
Threet former All AM NAPIER.
they wanted the schedule to be like this because in previous tours they’ve been underdone. One thing that stuck out to me is he said by the time the tests come they will be battle hardened – and that’s a word that Gatty uses over and over again. People say the Lions will be tired come test time but that’s not how he will enforce it to his team. He will say to each of them they will be battle hardened. It’s a key phrase he uses a lot when he coaches.
Q. Where will the All Blacks attack the Lions?
I can’t see the All Blacks going too far away from their natural game. We’ll have a clearer picture come the first test because although the Lions have time to build combinations it also gives the All Blacks a chance to look at what they’re doing. I see the All Blacks being more expansive than the Lions. The All Blacks’ ability to react from turnover possession will be a key area in the test series.
Q. Is there any room for an uncapped All Black to make his debut?
I don’t think so. Jordie Barrett, I know there’s a lot being said about him. If we were playing Wales or France in a three-match series my answer would be different but I can’t see that happening. I think they would only go with Jordie if Israel Dagg is unavailable. It’s a massive stage to throw someone new into and the All Blacks coaches knew this was coming from a long way out. You’d have to be pretty special to play your first test against the Lions.