All Blacks embracing "massive challenge" of facing Boks

The All Blacks may look at themselves as underdogs ahead of Saturday’s test match against the Springboks in Johannesburg, but one thing they are sure about - they have a massive challenge to stop a rampant Bok side.

Assistant coach Scott Hansen, the former Crusaders scrumhalf who took over the team’s attack after the departure of Leon MacDonald believes the Boks are in such a good position at the moment in terms of depth that it doesn’t matter who they select.

The playing field has been levelled somewhat with a burst of lock injuries in the Bok camp and the news that Eben Etzebeth may or may not be playing, but Hansen knows whoever plays, the challenge will be the same.

"The depth and experience and talent of South African rugby ... whoever they put out there, they are in a test jersey and will do their country proud, we know that," Hansen told reporters.

"They're the rugby world champions and they're playing like it. They're confident in their game and their brand of forward power, kicking pressure, and also their ability to use the ball.

"What you have to understand is the depth and excitement of South African rugby. It's unbelievable."

The Springboks are leading the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, meaning the All Blacks need to win one of the two matches between the two sides if they are to have a hope of catching the Boks.

"It's a hell of an opportunity and challenge for us on Saturday. We know how good they are," Hansen said.

"They have the ability to go through you, around you, over you, so we have to be right on with our game, we'll have to be at our best.

"It's been really exciting to hear the stories around what it's like to be out there at Ellis Park. I know the rivalry. I've watched it from afar and I've respected it."

Hansen acknowledged the depth that the Boks have at the moment is “unbelievable”.

“We’ve had a look around where their game is and their style, and fundamentally, their coaches are building a game plan,” he added.

“So, we understand what that is, around where they want to be. What we’ve got to acknowledge is the depth and excitement in South African rugby – it’s unbelievable.

“We know how good they are – they are the world champions, and playing them in their front yard. I’ve coached with Tony Brown for a number of years, and I can see his personality in their team, the excitement to use the ball, for sure.

“We understand what their strengths are and where they want to go, and what I’ve enjoyed is how they’re using the ball – whether it’s with their forwards or backs.

“They’ve got a dynamic game around power, and also their ability at set piece. Fundamentally, they come back to that, their set piece is dominant, first and foremost. The game for us starts there.“