By Will Toogood
Former French loose forward Olivier Magne has left little to the imagination in his assessment of the All Blacks’ chances for the Rugby World Cup.
Magne, who was part of the 1999 World Cup side that beat the All Blacks in one of
Rugby World Cup 2023: Former French star Olivier Magne labels 2023 All Blacks ‘weakest in history’ ahead of Paris opener
NZ Herald
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“I am especially worried about this New Zealand team.”
Magne called South Africa’s win at Twickenham an exposé of the All Blacks and called into question the “sham” results of the Rugby Championship.
“South Africa’s display against New Zealand is significant for the world of rugby,” he wrote.
“Now, isn’t this All Black team the weakest in history? I’m wondering. Really. I feel like New Zealand’s Rugby Championship wins were a bit of a sham.”
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Magne chose not to allude to the All Blacks’ 35-20 win over the Springboks at Mt Smart Stadium, as this is no doubt included in the “sham” results of that tournament.
The 89-cap international heaped praise upon France’s ability to be dominant and close matches out, referring to last week’s 47-17 victory over the Wallabies.
“When I see the level that the XV of France is able to display over 80 minutes today against Australia, with ‘finishers’ who have maintained the same level of performance, and the determination of these players, this opening game could be tough for the All Blacks”.
All Blacks defence coach Scott McLeod told media he is happy his players can’t read French, as they prepare for the World Cup opener against France on Saturday morning NZT.
McLeod says they have been reviewing footage of the 2021 French loss as well as examining their performance against the Springboks at Twickenham, in particular at set piece time, and responding better to officiating.
“We spent a fair bit of time in Germany going through that and looking at the footage and what we could have done better. Responding to the ref was one takeaway that will be consistent through this World Cup,” he said.
France v All Blacks: Kick-off 7.15am, Saturday
Follow the match at nzherald.co.nz
Elliott Smith’s live commentary on Newstalk ZB, Gold Sport and iHeartRadio
Alternative Commentary Collective: iHeartRadio and Radio Hauraki
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