ALL BLACKS

LONGEVITY 10/10

The All Blacks took little time to establish their credentials and have been recognised as, arguably, the game’s leading force since the 1920s. In the professional age, they have become an even more dominant force and have sustained their excellence for 20 years.

PINNACLE TOURNAMENTS 8/10

They have won three World Cups out of a possible eight. It’s not a record that reflects their domination as it took the All Blacks several failed attempts to realise that tournament play requires a di erent approach. The fact they have become the first team to win three tournaments and the first to win back-to-back elevates their credentials.

INTENSITY OF COMPETITION 7/10

Rugby is still a sport played in only a small number of countries – a point amplified by the fact only four nations have won the World Cup. There are only, in truth, five nations with genuine hopes of winning a World Cup with maybe another four capable of making the last four.

WINNING RECORD 10/10

The All Blacks are relentless and so rarely, if ever, lose games they were expected to win. Since 2012, they have only lost four tests and in each one, it was largely because their opponent deserved to beat them. The All Blacks don’t do sloppy.

SPORTING FOOTPRINT 10/10

Across the world, teams are inspired by the All Blacks and aspire to be like them. The All Blacks are the standard setters, the great innovators and the team that every other team wants to beat.