Damian McKenzie, Jordie Barrett of the All Blacks. Photo: Lynne Cameron/SmartFrame
Two of the All Blacks' key backline figures are not taking the threat of Argentina lightly this weekend.
Vice-captain Jordie Barrett said the while the historic first loss on New Zealand soil to the Pumas two years ago was not something the team had been talking about, it was still in the back of their minds.
"They got us on the nose a couple of years ago in Christchurch, started well and kicked plenty of penalty goals. We're doing everything we can to make sure that's not going to happen again."
Barrett said that "discipline was the main thing" in the 22-18 loss, however it was an area that this new All Black team was pleased with so far in 2024.
"We have to be very clean in that area and take the decision out of the referee's hands. It's one of the things we've been most proud of … it's something we have to keep working on.
"They're skilful, very physical with a good forward pack. They've got a squad that's been together for a number of years. They actually travel quite well too, which we've learned in the past."
The threat posed by the Pumas, who have started the year with two wins and a loss, was echoed by Damian McKenzie.
"They're obviously a great side, passionate, so we know we've got to start well," McKenzie said.
"They've improved a lot … I think the way they play, they've got some elusive backs and they're improving, they're going to throw everything at us.
While the All Blacks will be without captain Scott Barrett, something younger brother Jordie admitted "obviously hurts", it also represented "a clean slate for both sides".
"It's interesting, we faced a team full of line speed in England and Fiji were a little bit different in that space. Argentina we think might pose a different challenge for us too. We're having to evolve our game every time we're coming into camp."
Will Jordan scores the first try in the 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final match between Argentina and New Zealand at the Stade de France. Photo: AFP / Anne-Christine Poujoulat
Will Jordan has rejoined the squad after a lengthy spell on the sideline with injury, with McKenzie excited about his possible involvement this weekend.
"He's like the Ferarri, we bring him out of the garage at the right time. It's been a long time coming since the World Cup, so it's good to have him back."
Barrett said it was "good to see Will back with a smile on his face".
"He's a great player, his try scoring record speaks for itself," said Barrett, referring to the fact that Jordan has scored 31 tries in as many tests, including a record equalling eight at last year's World Cup.
All Blacks v Pumas
Kick-off: 7.05pm, Saturday 10 August (NZT)
Sky Stadium, Wellington
Live blog coverage on RNZ Sport
Teams will be announced on Thursday.
