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The All Blacks play their first Test of 2013 when they meet France at Eden Park tonight. We’ll have live scores from 5.30pm AEST.
After New Zealand lifted the William Webb Ellis trophy at Eden Park when they defeated France 8-7, the world’s number one side went to another level in 2012 with a near-perfect record.
Under new coach Steve Hansen the All Blacks destroyed the Irish in New Zealand, cantered to Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship victories and nearly claimed the Grand Slam to round out the year.
An 18-all draw with the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium and a shock 38-21 loss to England stand as the only blemishes on their record during the campaign.
Tonight the All Blacks will have a slightly different look, with Aaron Cruden stepping in for the injured Dan Carter, loosehead Wyatt Crocket replacing Tony Woodcock, and Sam Kane coming in at openside for absent skipper Richie McCaw.
21-year-old hooker Dane Coles makes only his fifth appearance, while the in the second row the relatively inexperienced pairing of Luke Romano and Brodie Retallick will start.
France head to New Zealand after a dismal showing at the Six Nations, winning just one match to finish last.
With the French Top 14 competition only recently finishing, several players have only arrived in New Zealand this week and will be rested, leaving new coach Philippe Saint-Andre to bring eight uncapped players in the 35-strong touring squad.
24-year-old flyhalf Camille Lopez will make his Test debut at ten, while Adrien Plante will also get his first Test cap on the wing.
While the All Blacks hold a dominant record over the French, winning 38 of 51 Tests, tonight’s opponent have had occasional success in New Zealand.
The All Blacks’ last loss in New Zealand was a 27-22 loss at Carisbrook against the French, who also hold the distinction of being the last nation to beat the All Blacks at Eden Park – all the way back in 1994.
The French also claimed one of their most famous wins on New Zealand soil at Eden Park when they claimed a 24-19 win on Bastille Day back in 1977.
At full strength and in form the French would have a remote shot at causing another historic upset tonight, but the reality is they are neither, and the home side should begin 2013 with a comfortable victory.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.