Thursday 6 November 2014 08:39, UK
New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter says prolific winger Julian Savea is in "red hot" form ahead of Saturday's eagerly-awaited Test against England at Twickenham.
Savea averages almost a try a game in Test rugby, with 29 touchdowns from his 30 appearances, but his remarkable strike rate is even better against England, with eight tries in four matches.
"Julian has really grown. He's such a huge threat and a great player to have on your side," Carter, the leading points-scorer in Test rugby history, told Sky Sports News HQ.
"He's strong, he's powerful, he's fast, he can break tackles and he loves scoring tries.
"He has a great strike rate against England and every time he pulls on the All Blacks jersey. He's in pretty red-hot form and is a great player to play alongside."
Savea is expected to come up against Bath winger Semesa Rokoduguni on Saturday, with the serving British army officer set to make his international debut.
"Every player who pulls on the England jersey performs out of their skin, even more so in the early stages of their career," added Carter.
"He's got nothing to lose and will make the most of the opportunity."
Carter returned from almost a year out of the Test arena - after taking a six-month sabbatical and recovering from a broken leg and calf injury - to win his 101st cap in last Saturday's 74-6 demolition of the United States.
But All Blacks coach Steve Hansen hinted that Carter is unlikely to start against England, with Aaron Cruden set to continue in the number 10 shirt.
"Every time we play at Twickenham it's a huge match and this weekend is no different. It's a great stadium and a great place to play," Carter said.
"The All Blacks love playing there and it's never an easy match. It's going to be a huge occasion and we'll be up against a strong England side."
Watch England v New Zealand live on Sky Sports 2 on Saturday from 1.30pm
