The pivotal moment in the calendar year, despite being months away, is set for Dublin in November when the All Blacks face off against Ireland.
The matchup is anticipated to be the standout event of 2024, overshadowing other potential surprises in sports or governance activities. The clash between the two elite teams is seen as a “championship of each other,” akin to the world of boxing.
Historically, it took Ireland over a century to secure their first victory against the All Blacks, but since their breakthrough win in Chicago, the teams have engaged in eight intense battles with four wins each. The fierce competition and animosity between them have elevated this fixture to a level where the All Blacks consider Ireland as their primary adversary.
While some argue that the traditional rivalry between the All Blacks and the Springboks holds a higher status, the article contends that the Ireland-New Zealand rivalry is gaining prominence due to both teams’ similar approaches to the international game. Both nations rely on a limited number of professional provincial teams, prioritize retaining key players, and draw talent from high-performing rugby schools.
The article emphasizes the significance of the Ireland-New Zealand clash as an acid test for major southern hemisphere touring teams, with the Aviva Stadium now replacing Twickenham in this regard. The presence of Andy Farrell, respected as a top-class coach and a genuine threat, adds another layer of intensity to the matchup.
Looking ahead to the November showdown, the All Blacks-France encounter is acknowledged but considered less daunting. Despite France’s recent victories, the All Blacks’ dominant record in previous meetings suggests that the real challenge lies in Dublin.
The positive state of the Irish squad under Farrell’s leadership makes the Aviva Stadium the preferred battleground for the All Blacks, even as they prepare for potential future scenarios where both teams may not be at the top of the rankings.
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