Skip to content

Steve Hansen says New Zealand are underdogs in Ireland

Opposing coaches Steve Hansen the head coach of New Zealand and Joe Schmidt the head coach of Ireland shake hands, Soldier Field, Chicago
Image: Ireland's victory over New Zealand in Chicago was their first in 29 attempts

Steve Hansen claims his world-beating New Zealand side are underdogs going into Saturday's rematch with Ireland.

The Irish pulled off a 40-29 victory over New Zealand in Chicago earlier this month, but that was their first success in 29 Tests against the World Cup holders.

The All Blacks were on a record 18-Test winning run before their shock defeat at Soldier Field and have since recovered their poise enough to thump Italy 68-10 in Rome.

Sky Bet make Ireland 11/2 outsiders to repeat their recent success this weekend, live on Sky Sports, but Kiwis coach Hansen said: "We know the challenge we face from Ireland will again be massive and we are going into the game as the underdogs.

Live International Rugby Union

"They'll be full of confidence and committed to delivering on their home patch, so we will have to take a massive step up, to get the performance we are looking for.

"It is a challenge that this team needs right now and how we respond will tell us a lot about ourselves. As I said, we are very much looking forward to Saturday.

Six months half price
Six months half price

Upgrade to Sky Sports to watch Man Utd-Arsenal on Saturday and get the first six months half price

"While there was obvious disappointment at the loss in Chicago, disappointment doesn't win Test matches - it's about having great preparation and attitude, and delivering on the day."

Also See:

Ireland's Devin Toner has suggested New Zealand's "mystique" was damaged by the Chicago game, but the visitors will have key locks Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick back in their pack - and in the lineout.

Upgrade to Sky Sports now to watch Man Utd v Arsenal this Saturday and get the first six months half price!

Around Sky