Sonny Bill Williams showed his experience during today's All Blacks press conference, stepping in to answer a tough question which stumped his rookie teammate Jack Goodhue.
A South African reporter asked the pair how tough it was challenging themselves in a team that has got so used to winning.
Williams, 33, heard the silence after the question and offered to answer it on behalf of his teammate.
"That's a tough question," said Williams.
"I'll jam it. You want me to jam it?"
A relieved Goodhue was quick to let his veteran teammate Williams respond.
"Yeah you jam it. It's one v one with you and the media at the moment, you might as well carry on," said Goodhue.
Williams gave his centre partner a bit of stick before answering the question.
"I got you bro," said Williams.
"I've created that space so you should feel comfortable to answer it, but I'll answer it."
The pair are set to start against the Springboks in their Rugby Championship Test in Pretoria. (Source: Other)
Williams said the competitive nature within the team is what drives them to excel and want to be better.
"I think that's what is special about this team, is that you can roll out an All Blacks B side and it will still be very, very competitive.
"That competitiveness comes from within, just as it comes from the outside as well."
Williams said starting positions are never guaranteed in a side full of talented players.
"I know that if I don't perform, you know Jack, Ngani (Laumape) or (Ryan) Crotty or LB (Anton Lienert-Brown) is going to be able to put their hand up and say 'I am there to take that space.'
"I think where we have come further with that or gone deeper is understanding we all want to be the guy that is starting, but if you are not starting, take that hit it's going to hurt."
Williams and Goodhue are both named to start on Sunday in Pretoria with Ryan Crotty named on the bench as cover for the All Blacks.
"But we are going to prepare you as well as if I was starting, I would expect it.
"That's where the motivation comes from, it's not always from the outside."
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