Rennie Reacts to Nonu’s Haka and Provides McKenzie’s Injury Update: ‘We Anticipated This’

Despite difficult conditions with rain affecting both handling and the playing surface, the All Blacks managed to pull ahead significantly after a somewhat frustrating opening 40 minutes.

Rennie noted that his team was not entirely satisfied with their first-half performance, especially after conceding multiple early penalties and struggling to maintain consistent pressure.

“The second half was outstanding. We probably felt a bit frustrated in the first half,” Rennie remarked.

“We gave away too many early penalties and found it challenging to hold on to the ball. When we did take control, we looked promising, but we didn’t apply enough pressure over time.”

The All Blacks elevated their game in the second half, improving their kicking strategy, becoming more effective with possession, and displaying a strong defensive effort that kept the Sharks scoreless.

“In the second half, our kicking improved significantly, and we were much more clinical while defending effectively,” Rennie commented.

“They depended heavily on their kicking game, and we usually managed that quite well.”

This victory also provided Rennie with the perfect preparation, with only 10 days remaining until the first Test against the Springboks.

Having already faced the DHL Stormers before their trip to Durban, Rennie felt that the two matches had provided essential game time for most of his squad.

“Yes, I believe we met our goals with the first two matches,” he stated when asked about the All Blacks’ objectives.

“Most of the team gained valuable minutes on the pitch. While the conditions were challenging, we succeeded in performing well, supported by a solid defensive display,” he elaborated.

The All Blacks have now played five matches this season, including three in the inaugural Nations Championship, which Rennie believes has fostered a better understanding of their systems ahead of the Tests.

“We’ve played five games together this season, which has given us a clearer understanding of our preferred playing style.”

There was some initial concern when Damian McKenzie appeared to injure his ankle after landing from a high ball.

However, Rennie sought to ease worries about the key playmaker, stating that the injury is not expected to affect his participation in the first Test.

“Damian twisted his ankle while coming down from a high ball in the first minute,” Rennie explained.

“We had it strapped, and we expect him to be ready for the first Test.”

Rennie also confirmed that the All Blacks would wait until after the Sharks game to decide on a replacement for Billy Proctor, as the coaching staff wanted to assess the squad’s injury situation before making a final decision.

“We decided not to make a decision regarding Billy’s replacement until after this Sharks match, as we might need to take a different approach if we suffer more injuries.”

One of the standout moments of the night occurred before kick-off when former All Blacks center Ma’a Nonu performed a solo haka in response to the All Blacks’ traditional challenge.

Rennie revealed that the All Blacks were aware of Nonu’s plans to respond and that the veteran center had consulted with former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga for advice on how to approach the moment respectfully.

“We knew it was coming,” Rennie said.

“He spoke with Tana Umaga the night before. He wanted to be respectful, so he sought guidance on how best to respond, which they supported,” he explained.

For Rennie, the gesture was appreciated in the spirit it was intended—as a tribute to the All Blacks and their traditions.

“I thought it was fantastic,” Rennie added.

The All Blacks will now turn their focus to their final warm-up match against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday before gearing up for the first Test against the Springboks, buoyed by two victories over South African teams and a growing clarity regarding their approach to the game.