All Blacks chief responds to Gatland dig

NZRU chief executive Steve Tew has defended the national team after Wales coach Warren Gatland accused the All Blacks of failing to do enough homework on their opponents.

New Zealand Rugby Union chief executive Steve Tew has defended the national team after Wales coach Warren Gatland accused the All Blacks of failing to do enough homework on their opponents.

New Zealand-born Gatland tested his Wales side's knowledge of Italy ahead of the recent Six Nations clash but questioned whether his compatriots employ a similar practice.

“How many All Blacks would know the players in the Wales team if they were playing them tomorrow?” he said.

Graham Henry's side have faced fierce criticism since a quarter-final exit to host nation France in last year's rugby world cup – the All Blacks' worst-ever performance in the competition – despite entering the tournament as overwhelming favourites.

But Tew, speaking at an event to announce Hong Kong will host a Bledisloe Cup clash between Australia and New Zealand, insists the All Blacks approach all matches with the utmost professionalism.

“I did read Warren's comments and I presume he's got a reason for making them,” he added.

“Certainly, from my experience, all of our professional rugby teams spend a considerable amount of time analysing the opposition, preparing for every game, so I find it a little bit hard to understand that criticism, but he's entitled to his views.”