The All Blacks' team management have hinted their may be an improvised feel to this weekend's first Test against France but it's a neccessity based on what they've learned in the past.
Ian Foster says the short time window of assembling and training for Saturday's match at Eden Park isn't an easy gig, theming this week as "more like survival" than preparation.
But the assistant coach also said the team is soldiering on regardless and doing what they can.
"Let's not get hung up on it, it's never the easiest week in the world. But it's one we've done reasonably well certain years, and we've learnt a bit from that.
"We've learnt we can be part of the problem if we try to do too much. The guys came in Sunday very, very tired, and we've got to adjust because there's a test match on Saturday."
As a result, Foster said while a general gameplan will be in place for the Test, it won't be a fine-tuned strategy.
"It's about being clear and simple, and trusting the guys. We need to take one step at a time.
"They're good rugby players, so it's trying not to make this too big a week in terms of content but just enough to give us a form and shape. And let them make up a few things as they go along."
Saturday's Test kicks off at 7:30pm.
SHARE ME