Talking points as England chase prized New Zealand scalp in Dunedin
The first of two Tests between England and the All Blacks takes place on Saturday.
England play their first match in New Zealand for a decade as they look to shock the All Blacks in Dunedin on Saturday morning.
Here, the PA news agency examines five talking points heading into the first of two Tests between the rivals.
The ultimate challenge
England wins against New Zealand on Kiwi soil are precious and have been managed only twice before – in 1973 and 2003. Since Martin Johnson’s team prevailed against the odds over two decades ago, England have played seven more times in the All Blacks’ back yard and got close only once, a 20-15 defeat in Auckland in 2014. South Africa are world champions, but outside the global showpiece winning a Test series in New Zealand is the sport’s ultimate challenge.
Chinks in armour
The All Blacks are heavy favourites to triumph at Forsyth Barr Stadium, yet they have rarely appeared so vulnerable. Their first outing of the year takes place under a new head coach and captain in Scott Robertson and Scott Barrett respectively, while influential stalwarts such as Richie Mo’unga, Brodie Retallick and Aaron Smith have either retired or are on sabbaticals in Japan. Factor in player unrest with administrators and the Crusaders fading as the dominant force in Super Rugby and it seems to be a good time to be facing the World Cup runners-up.
Smith’s moment of truth
Savea v Earl
Long-term view
