Rugby: Henry feeling good about Cup campaign

All Black captain Richie McCaw clasps a red rose from a fan while signing autographs with the rest of the World Cup squad in Christchurch yesterday. Photo / Simon Baker

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Graham Henry has a good feeling about the All Blacks at the World Cup.

"I think [they] will win," he told several hundred cheering supporters in Christchurch yesterday.

"I can't guarantee that. But I have a good feeling. They will play their hearts out for you."

Henry's confidence was shared by the fans who turned out on a fine, crisp day in high spirits for one of the last chances to interact with the All Blacks before the big tournament next month in France.

The World Cup squad is in Christchurch for a pre-tournament camp and took time out to sign autographs and mingle with fans.

After a guard of honour by local schoolboys and a rousing version of the national anthem by the local Christ's College choir, 1071 black balloons were released to symbolise every player to represent the All Blacks to date.

Bev Smith, 62, turned up to see how big the All Blacks really were. She has no doubt they will bring home the cup. "I think they are keeping the best for last until they get overseas and hit their peak."

Wensley, 57, also thinks the team will do well "but I'm a bit worried about some of the referees to be honest".

Nurse Terry Bell, 50, was trying to collect All Black signatures for her daughter, who is travelling to Scotland to watch a World Cup match. "I feel confident. There's lots of enthusiasm for them to win."

Christchurch Mayor Garry Moore was an unashamedly one-eyed Cantabrian when he made special mention of the local players in the All Black squad. He is looking forward to the All Blacks retaining the cup at the 2011 final "in Christchurch".