Ardie Savea: England are not a one-trick pony and bring more than just their ‘physical game’
All Blacks back-row Ardie Savea takes on the Los Pumas defence.
Veteran All Black Ardie Savea believes England are far more than just physical as New Zealand prepare to face the Red Rose at Twickenham this weekend.
Under Steve Borthwick, England have been criticised for their – at times – conservative approach to the game with Planet Rugby columnist David Campese claiming the side was “as boring as batsh*t”.
This comes from their pragmatic style built around a strong set-piece and contestable kicking game, much like the world champion Springboks sides of 2019 and 2023.
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More to the Red Rose
However, superstar Savea believes there is much more to the side, particularly with maverick fly-half Marcus Smith pulling the strings. The All Black references the last time the teams met in London to prove how dangerous England are when New Zealand ended up drawing despite leading 25-6 with 10 minutes to go.
“I think England not only bring the physical game, but they have got a bit of razzle and swag to their game as well and with Marcus Smith at 10 they can play from anywhere,” Savea told reporters.
“We saw that the last time we played them at Twickenham. We got up and they came back and drew for us, we have just got to be clinical, nail our job, our role, every moment or try to.”
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All Blacks have grown
It won’t be the first time the teams have met in 2024 with England having made the trip to the land of the long white cloud in the mid-year window.
They very nearly beat the All Blacks in both Tests but Beauden Barrett’s magic spared the hosts’ blushes to claim the series two-nil.
“We have grown a lot since the two tests in New Zealand. It is just a matter of coming together on Saturday and nailing it under pressure. We understand how important the crowd is and the noise that comes with it,” Savea added.
“There will be times when England get up and have the momentum, and we have to get back in the moment.
“We have to expect that and when it does come, breathe and try to nail our next moment.”
The All Blacks will be looking to kick on from a mixed Rugby Championship campaign that saw the final quarter of matches become a real concern.
