By Ashlee Tulloch
The All Blacks have assembled in Auckland ahead of next weekends first Bledisloe test and four nations championship opener against the Wallabies.
But before their build up begins with a hit out against counties in Pukekohe tomorrow, a few of the boys did a bit of competitive team bonding.
Whether it’s playing rugby or racing on chairs for a promotion, these guys are always competing.
So what happens when Kieran Read gets in Dan Carter's way?
“I was pretty disappointed in that because we started really strongly. Got through the course, got everything up and then he just completely came and cut us off. I would call that cheating.”
And even playing in a sand pit isn't child’s play, Luke Romano says.
“Yeah not a lot of experience in a sand pit but might have had a few toys like a bucket and my shovel.”
But they know it's on the field that counts. And for Read the All Blacks camp couldn't have come sooner.
“I'm feeling great, obviously had an extended break with the injury, so I’m really looking forward to getting back out on the field. It’s an exciting time.
For lock Romano All Black life is still very new.
“I got my first taste of international rugby in the June series so this is all foreign ground for me playing in the championship.”
And he showed no signs of his shoulder injury when lifting a load of fence posts.
“Yeah its coming along good. Still a little bit sore here and there but we'll assess it tonight with the All Black physios and doctors.”
While they've been looking forward to the test they admit the Olympics has been keeping them pre-occupied.
If Carter was an Olympian he would want to be like Usain Bolt.
“Oh it would have to be the 100m sprint. Yep it’s where the show ponies are at and while I’m not the fastest and get a hiding, it would be pretty cool to beat Usain Bolt because he is lightening quick.”
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