As they prepare for the Rugby World Cup final this weekend, the All Blacks shed a few tears at their camp and has been motivated after a few players who will be playing their final test match shared their journey and experiences of how they became an All Black and the challenges they had to conquer to achieve their dreams.
Centurions Aaron Smith, Brodie Retallick, Sam Whitelock and 90-test hooker Dane Coles are among those preparing for their final bow with the All Blacks this weekend.
Flanker Dalton Papali’i says it was quite special to hear some of the things certain players said from the heart.
He says you think you know someone but once they open up and be vulnerable in front of the team it was quite special to hear.
He adds it was truly something special when you hear those boys open up.
Since the beginning of their World Cup campaign this year, All Blacks coach Ian Foster has invited legendary World Cup winners Dan Carter, Richie McCaw, Keven Mealamu, Jerome Kaino and Conrad Smith into camp at different stages.
Forwards coach Jason Ryan says experienced leaders spoke around what it has been like to be an All Black, some of their previous experiences of World Cups as well as some of the younger boys as well and adds that has been a special part of their week.
He says anyone who has played 100 tests, they have got a couple of stories to tell and it was good to listen to them.
The All Blacks will take on the Springboks at 7am Sunday.
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