Great Expectations

The All Blacks go into this year’s Rugby World Cup ranked second after England, yet the British press largely favours them to win. According to the Observer, “the ABs are certainties for the final stages. If the Australian weather is good to them, then NZ could edge out England in the final.” In an Independent poll of their top rugby writers, 6 out of 8 believe victory will go to the men in black, with winger Doug Howlett the overall pick for player of the tournament. The ABs opened their campaign in Pool D with a solid 70-7 win over Italy, a 68-6 victory over Canada and a comprehensive 91-7 demolition of Tonga.