This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
As the All Blacks prepare for the Rugby World Cup, they are experimenting with new midfield combinations to gain an edge over their opponents.
After a strong start against South Africa, the team is expected to feature Sonny Bill Williams and Jack Goodhue alongside Ryan Crotty and Anton Lienert-Brown in upcoming matches against Canada, Namibia, and Italy.
Assistant coach Ian Foster believes that mixing up the midfield foursome will provide familiarity for all possible combinations, which is crucial for the team's success.
"Do we know what our leading midfield is? Probably. We've got a good idea. I'm not going to tell you but I'm really happy with the combinations we're developing," Foster said.
With a 10-day break before their next match against Canada, the team is expected to use this time to hone their game and meet their own expectations on a daily basis.
"The reality is we've got three more opportunities to hone our game and to get it to the point we need it to be at," Foster said.
