McCaw wary of England threat

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw admits his side will be spurred on by memories of their heavy defeat to England at Twickenham in 2012 during Saturday's Test. [more]

McCaw wary of England threat

New Zealand captain Richie McCaw admits his side will be spurred on by memories of their heavy defeat to England at Twickenham in 2012 during Saturday’s Test.

The All Blacks, who will host the British & Irish Lions in 2017, were stunned when England secured a 38-21 triumph to end the visitors’ 20-match unbeaten streak two years ago.

Although New Zealand have since won four consecutive encounters with England, McCaw insists his side will not allow complacency to set in as they know what their opponents can produce.

And the flanker, who played the first two tests of the All Blacks’ 3-0 series victory over the Lions in 2005, is determined not to have his off-season ruined by Stuart Lancaster’s side once more.

“Two years ago we got tripped up at Twickenham,” said McCaw.

“Going into a month off having had a loss, which in the end was by quite a few points, made it an interesting old summer. I don't want to have that summer again so let's get the job right this week.

“We realise if we aren’t on the job and a team gets their tails up it doesn’t take much to swing back the other way.

“England are a good team, they believe in themselves and that day we got under pressure and we didn’t cope with it very well for a whole number of reasons.

“I’m pretty sure the guys are motivated not to let that happen again.”

Previous story Cruden surprised by Twickenham start
Next story Hansen: All Blacks’ desire proved vital