Wing Ben Smith insists the All Blacks will not take their eye off the ball against South Africa this weekend, despite having already sewn up the Rugby Championship with a game to spare.
Smith scored the opening try in Saturday’s 34-12 victory over Argentina for New Zealand – hosts of the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour.
But with the All Blacks’ on a 26-match run unbeaten streak, the 28-year-old says there is still plenty to play for at Ellis Park.
“I think playing South Africa in South Africa is one of the biggest challenges,” said Smith.
“It’s probably one of the most enjoyable games of the year, so it doesn’t matter to this group if there’s a trophy on the line.”
Dan Coles is expected to rejoin the squad this week following the birth of his son Jax Ronnie on Friday, though head coach Steve Hansen may opt to keep faith with Keven Mealamu, winner of 118 Test caps, in the front row.
