The All Blacks delivered another commanding performance at Sydney’s Accor Stadium to claim a convincing 43-21 win over the Wallabies to sweep the Bledisloe Cup series on Saturday.
Building on their dominant 50-19 victory in Auckland a week earlier, New Zealand had the result effectively wrapped up by half-time, ultimately cruising to a record 13th consecutive test win over Australia.
The victory also saw the All Blacks gain another 0.66 rankings points, and as a result they are now just 1.28 points behind the Springboks.
These teams are next in action when the Nations Championship competition resumes in November.
HERE IS HOW THE RANKINGS LOOK AFTER THE LATEST ALL BLACKS WIN
Back on track
Reflecting on the latest victory, All Blacks coach Dave Rennie praised the speed, decision-making and physical intent of the All Blacks’ opening 43 minutes, before a disrupted second half tested their depth and resolve.
Asked whether that attacking ambition could succeed at next year’s Rugby World Cup, his answer was clear.
“There’s no point playing this way and then going to a World Cup and trying to play risk-free footy.”
Rennie acknowledged the approach could put his side under pressure, but backed the All Blacks to gain more than they concede by continuing to develop it.
“It’s a point of difference. Part of the DNA of both sides I think. When we’re able to hang onto the ball, we can play quick.”
Veteran forward Codie Taylor said the enjoyment of playing that way came from the work done around the contact area.
“It’s why we love playing rugby, throwing the ball around.”
