The All Blacks wrapped up their pre-Test programme in South Africa with a commanding 50-19 victory over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, extending their perfect record on tour to three wins from three outings.
Leroy Carter and Josh Moorby both crossed twice, while Codie Taylor, Rieko Ioane and Wallace Sititi added further tries in a performance that showcased New Zealand's attacking depth. The Bulls managed consolation scores through Ruan Vermaak, Stravino Jacobs and Marcell Coetzee, but were comprehensively outplayed across the 80 minutes.
Carter's display on the right wing has complicated Dave Rennie's selection calculus ahead of the Ellis Park Test. The winger was involved in Moorby's opening try with a crossfield run, reclaimed a Beauden Barrett chip for the second, and then scored twice himself in the second half. His all-action performance came with Caleb Clarke sidelined through injury, and the coaching staff now face a genuine dilemma over the starting back three.
Altitude audition for Barrett
Beauден Barrett's shift to full-back proved far more productive than his earlier outing at fly-half against the Stormers. Operating at altitude, the veteran playmaker timed his pass perfectly for Moorby's first try and delivered a late chip that set up the winger's second score. His kicking from hand was assured throughout, a pointed response to questions over his best position in the matchday 23.
The tourists have now amassed 142 points across their three fixtures, conceding just 40. The caveat remains that all three opponents were franchise sides in pre-season mode, with their Springbok contingent absent on national duty. Yet the All Blacks have improved incrementally with each outing, refining their attack and holding the front foot up front.
Rennie's squad now turn their attention to the Test series, with the opening fixture at Ellis Park looming. The warm-up programme has delivered the desired outcome: form, confidence and selection headaches in equal measure. The Springboks, by contrast, have had no such luxury of match sharpness heading into the series.