It’s all about growing for the future: Hansen
London: New Zealand were always going to be the winners of this frolicsome day out at Twickenham, no matter how the 31-22 scoreline panned out.
The NZ union pocketed a few million as a match fee, the All Blacks got a useful run-out with their mix ’n’ match side ahead of three Testing internationals to come in Paris, Edinburgh and Cardiff, while, with 13 Kiwis in Barbarian ranks. All Black head coach, Steve Hansen, was able to run the rule over a host of fringe candidates for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, even if the starturn was a South African, Barbarians’ flanker Kwagga Smith.
“We got caught up a bit in the festival of the occasion but we adapted,” said Hansen.
“This tour is all about growing for the future and we’ve started that. The Tests will be much tougher. It is totally different you go to Test level.”
Barbarians head coach, Robbie Deans, said: “The Barbarian spirit is alive and well, The jersey means a lot to these boys. We wanted them to play without fear and they did.”
There were flashes of positive stuff from the tourists. Seta Tamanivalu and Waisake Naholo had some good moments on the wing, Ngani Laumape carried strongly in midfield, Ardie Savea was busy and Vaea Fifita showcased the athleticism that make him such an exciting prospect. The scrum was solid and the early subs made their mark.
But the Baabaas also brought plenty to the occasion, with Kiwis Steven Luatua, Richie Mo’unga, George Bridge (with his two tries), Dom Bird, Andy Ellis and Richard Buckman among the standout figures.