All Blacks coach Steve Hansen didn't mince his words at this morning's press conference despite a committed South African reporter's best attempts to discover the secret to his side's mental game.
Hansen was happy to discuss the role the mental game had in rugby, saying he feels it's always been an important factor.
"I don't know if it's become any bigger than it's ever been," Hansen said.
"In any sport, the mental side of your game is massive - particularly at the highest level. Most people have got the same amount of talent and desire and it's about being able to control the big moments and control yourself when things don't go the way you want you to go."
One reporter wasn't happy with that vague answer and tried his best to squeeze a strategy out of Hansen.
"Specifically, what do you do this week to work on it?"
Hansen wasn't about to get into specifics though.
“I can't tell you all our secrets
"I can't tell you all our secrets," he said.
The reporter, realising he was on the back ropes, tried one last plea.
"Give us a little bit, sir."
Hansen, as sharp as ever, shut the conversation down beautifully.
"I just did."
The All Blacks [and their undisclosed mental game] take on the Springboks at 4am NZT on Sunday in Cape Town.
More video content from the All Blacks in South Africa
A trip to the local mall, a movie and a little bit of down time is all the All Blacks hooker needs. (Source: Other)
A South African reporter tried his best to get an answer out of Sam Whitelock as to why NZ are so successful at lineout time against the Springboks. (Source: Other)
The notoriously-quick hooker said he hopes he isn't labelled a winger as it means he's hanging out on the edge doing "bugger all". (Source: Other)
The All Blacks centre got his legs burning ahead of this weekend's Test against the Springboks. (Source: Other)
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