The All Blacks have a formidable look in attack, but Wallabies coach Michael Cheika is adamant his side’s defence will be up to scratch against the All Blacks.
Kurtley Beale and Samu Kerevi add some X‑Factor, while the inclusion of debutant Curtis Rona on the wing with Henry Speight brings more finishing ability, but it’s the other side of the coin that has hurt the Wallabies in the past.
The Wallabies missed 38 tackles in last year’s Bledisloe opener, conceding 42 points in the process.
Since then, defence coach Nathan Grey has become a full‑time Wallabies assistant and Cheika was adamant those issues had been sorted out.
Grey says they've worked really hard on the defense because they know it is a very important part of the game because of how potent the All Blacks are in attack and they will take a few risks to get the outcome they want but he believes they’re well‑prepared in that area.
The All Blacks reshuffled backline will test their defence, with Cheika acutely aware of the threat new fullback Damian McKenzie poses in his first start.
Cheika has felt the full spectrum of Bledisloe results at ANZ Stadium and says the side certainly understands the gravity of the task ahead of them.
The Wallabies take on the All Blacks in the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship opener at 10pm tomorrow.
Source: Rugby.com.au
