Springboks provide New Zealand’s biggest test of new attacking approach, says Codie Taylor

Codie Taylor says the Springboks will provide the clearest indication yet of whether New Zealand’s new ball-in-hand style can succeed, as the All Blacks prepare for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series in South Africa.

New Zealand built momentum during their three-Test Nations Championship campaign at home after a slow start, and Taylor believes that progress has given the squad a strong platform before facing the reigning world champions.

The All Blacks have undergone significant change under new coach Dave Rennie, including a greater emphasis on retaining possession and reducing their reliance on kicking. Taylor said the Nations Championship had been an important part of developing the team’s identity and establishing the standards expected by Rennie.

“Both teams[New Zealand and South Africa]have started really well. We haven’t lost yet,” Taylor told reporters.

“We started slow and built our way into what was the three Tests back home. We got to a place we were pretty happy with, but Dave’s always looking for more, which is great,” Taylor said.

However, the New Zealand hooker accepts that their progress will be properly measured against South Africa, who remain one of the strongest sides in international rugby.

“South Africa are an amazing team,” he said.

“We’re under no illusion that they’re world champions for a reason. It’s going to be a really hard series over here.”

“It means we’re a great contest and we’re really looking forward to it.”

Taylor also outlined the unusual demands created by the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry format, with New Zealand having to manage a series of Tests alongside mid-week fixtures as the squad continues to adapt to Rennie’s methods.

The All Blacks began their preparations with the three Nations Championship matches in New Zealand before taking a week off and travelling to South Africa early to prepare for their meeting with the Stormers.

“We started the prep, I suppose, with the three Tests that we had back home,” noted Taylor.

“There’s been a week off, and then we’ve come over here early to prepare for the Stormers.

“I think it’s unique for us. We’ve got a bigger squad. There’s going to be mid-week games. Although it’s going to be tough, at the same time it gives everyone an opportunity.

“It also allows us to work on our game throughout the mid-week and work into those Test matches.

“It’s all new for us, but this team, the standards are so high. Dave’s been driving it really well. We’re just looking forward to playing some rugby.”

The expanded squad and additional matches will give more players the chance to contribute, while also allowing New Zealand to refine their approach between the major Tests.

Taylor said that combination of challenge and opportunity would be valuable for a team still building under Rennie. Although the All Blacks arrive with an unbeaten record and growing confidence, they know South Africa will offer a far more demanding examination than the one they faced during their home campaign.