All Blacks claim bloody and physical test

The All Blacks commenced the new Nations Championship competition with a grueling 34-32 victory over France in a fiercely physical encounter at Christchurch's One New Zealand Stadium. The match, witnessed by 29,152 fans, was a testament to the intense nature of international rugby, living up to its billing as a "bloody battle."

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At halftime, I was in the toilet spewing. I felt better after.

This game also heralded the beginning of the David Rennie coaching era, a period marked by a strong emphasis on Pasifika connections within the team. Rennie, whose mother is of Cook Islands heritage, was supported by assistant coach Tana Umaga, the first All Blacks captain of Pasifika heritage. On the field, Ardie Savea, who bears the scars of the physical contest with a cut on his eyebrow, led the team as captain. Savea is the second Pasifika heritage player to captain the former world champions, following in Umaga's footsteps.

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I was sitting on the bench and nearly vomiting. I was like, I'm not even on the field yet, I can't imagine what it'll be like when I am on the field.

The All Blacks squad included three debutants: prop Xavier Numia, winger Fehi Fineanganofo, and lock Jamie Hannah. For Fineanganofo, the experience was deeply emotional and nerve-wracking. "At halftime, I was in the toilet spewing. I felt better after," the 23-year-old winger admitted, describing the overwhelming nerves before even stepping onto the field. He found solace in hearing his family's cheers and the surreal feeling of his first touch of the ball, which helped dissipate his anxiety.

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I was still in shock, and then once I had my first touch of the ball, all the nerves just went, and I just realised I was in it.

Fineanganofo, who has Tongan heritage, described the French team as "strong" and "physical," attributes the All Blacks had anticipated. He acknowledged the significant step-up from Super Rugby, crediting his teammates for helping him find his footing in the demanding Test match. Despite only two carries for 13 meters and beating one tackle, he made all three of his tackles, contributing to the team's hard-won victory. After the game, he was celebrated by his family, who gifted him necklaces made of sweets, an emotional moment for all involved.

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Happy to represent my family.