Overview

• Assistant coach Scott Hansen says New Zealand must be courageous, precise and adaptable against South Africa’s direct, physical, aerial game.
• Attack coach Jason Holland concedes the All Blacks’ attack has misfired with just three linebreaks in two Tests and stresses better execution and width.
• New Zealand’s 50‑Test unbeaten run at Eden Park underpins the occasion as the Springboks target a rare victory at the venue.
• Rankings scenarios reported by RugbyPass show the All Blacks fall from No. 1 if they do not win, with a loss dropping them to third and a draw elevating South Africa.
• Veteran mentor Sir Wayne Smith is in camp as scrutiny mounts after the Buenos Aires defeat, with Ardie Savea’s 100th Test adding significance to a fixture many analysts view as a potential watershed.