All Blacks: Scott Robertson hails Sam Cane for leaving ‘hell of a mark’ on team and why there’s ‘no replacement’ for what he brings
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson and captain Sam Cane in 2024. (James Foy / Speed Media AU / Iconsportswire)
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has lauded departing legend Sam Cane for “leaving a hell of a mark” ahead of his final game before his departure to Japan.
Cane is set to run out for his final international fixture before setting off to play in the Japan Rugby League One next year and starts on the openside flank in Turin.
His return to fitness after missing the France loss is a welcome fillip for New Zealand as they look to conclude their Autumn Nations Series campaign on a positive.
Experience is key
Speaking after naming his side for Saturday’s fixture with Italy, Robertson was full of praise for Cane and admitted he has helped him learn a lot about Test rugby.
“He epitomises what an All Black loose forward is about. He’s a great leader and left a hell of a mark for us,” he said.
“One thing I’ve learned is Test match footy is a lot to do with experience. You have to have experience, there’s no replacement. You have to have been there and felt it, so that you can teach others, and that’s what they’ve done.”
Cane is not alone in bidding farewell to the New Zealand jersey this weekend as TJ Perenara is poised to come off the bench for his farewell international run-out.
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The duo’s inclusion in the matchday 23 is part of several alterations to last week’s XV, with Ethan de Groot returning after being stood down since the Ireland fixture.
“He has trained the house down. He’s done double sessions and after the indiscretion, he’s put his hand up and owned it. It’s his chance,” the coach said of De Groot.
Looking ahead to the Italy clash, Robertson admitted he is not underestimating the challenge that faces his All Blacks as he looks to end the year with a triumph.
“They are a passionate side when they get it right. They’re a tough side to play, and this is a big team that we believe is best for this weekend,” the coach warned.
‘Tough to beat’
“Their attack has improved remarkably. We know they’re always going to be patient and physical on defence, their breakdown work is relentless, but they have the ability to hold the ball and create mismatches and extra numbers. They’re well coached and when they’re on, they’re tough to beat.”
He added: “We wanted to come up here and sweep the North. The margins are small, and now we get a chance to finish properly. It’s been a big 40 days for us and we want to finish on Saturday night with a performance we’re proud of.”
