All Blacks great Richie McCaw has been brought in to help the squad prepare for their next clash with the Springboks, imparting his wisdom on the playing group as Scott Robertson’s side attempt to reclaim the Freedom Cup.
The World Cup-winning captain from 2011 and 2015 was spotted watching training at the state-of-the-art New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport in Upper Hutt on Tuesday.
Midfielder Quinn Tupaea admitted he was a little starstruck when the 148-test legend arrived.
Tupaea says it is pretty crazy seeing him in the environment as it is the first time he has met him, as he was a fan of his growing up.
Assistant coach Tamati Ellison was coy on the specifics of McCaw’s involvement ahead of their clash against the Springboks saying he’s an All Blacks legend so he’s always in camp, if you know what I mean.
The All Blacks are eyeing back-to-back wins against South Africa to reclaim the Freedom Cup but will come up against a new-look team in the Wellington rematch.
Rassie Erasmus has swung the axe following last weekend’s 24-17 defeat in Eden Park, making seven changes to his starting lineup – six in the backs.
Tupaea said he was surprised by the number of changes, and believed the selections in the back line hinted at a different approach by the Springboks.
The All Blacks will be forced to make at least two changes to their team with hooker Codie Taylor (concussion) and right winger Emoni Narawa (ribs) ruled out due to injury.
The All Blacks take on the Springboks at 7.05pm Saturday at Sky Stadium in Wellington.
Meanwhile, the Wallabies play Los Pumas 4pm Saturday at Allianz Stadium.
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