ALL BLACKS’ DIRTY TRICKS

BLOCKING

Warren Gatland accused the All Blacks of planting static players to obstruct the opposition. It involves defenders stepping in front of attackers chasing kick offs or up-and-unders to ensure the All Black defenders face no challenge in the air. It can also involve pulling the shirt of support runners.

OFFSIDE AT THE RUCK

Richie McCaw was sin binned just three times in 148 Tests for the All Blacks despite being a menace at the breakdown. The Kiwis developed a reputation for illegally entering the breakdown from the side – rather than from the back foot – to slow down or steal opposition ball.

LATE HITS ON THE NO 10

All Blacks prop Wyatt Crockett gave Owen Farrell a taste of what to expect in the Crusaders game. The giant prop flew into the fly-half moments after he kicked the ball but, in this instance, the Kiwi came off worse and landed on the deck. They will do their best to unsettle the play-maker.

HOUNDING THE REFEREE

South African Jonathan Kaplan refereed the All Blacks 18 times. Once he retired, he said: ‘They put a lot of heat on the referee and force him to make decisions which can be quite daunting for young referees .’ Saturday’s referee is South African Jaco Peyper, who has taken charge of 36 Tests.