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Video: Steve Hansen says Barbarians 'still a major game'

November 3, 2017
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All Blacks coach Steve Hansen says his side are giving full respect to the Barbarians, as the two sides prepare to meet at Twickenham on Sunday.

Despite not being a full Test match, the All Blacks aren't taking things easy this week. (Source: Other)

Because the Barbarians are in theory a club side, the match between the two side's doesn't hold Test match status, despite a number of opposition players having represented their countries at the highest level.

Speaking to media, Hansen made it clear that the Barbarians are still a side to be respected, even if Sunday's match doesn't hold the shine of a Test match.

"It's not a full Test and it's not a major club game, but it's still a major game because they're going to pull on the All Black jersey," he said.

"It's an opportunity for some young, inexperienced players to be able to do that without the pressures of Test rugby."

The star first-five will lead his country for the first time against the Barbarians. (Source: Other)

The two brothers have never come up against each other on the field before. (Source: Other)

"It's pretty important for the development of our players."

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