Wallabies coach Robbie Deans wants his forwards to hit harder and think smarter in Saturday night’s Rugby Championship battle with New Zealand, as Australia fights to keep the Bledisloe Cup series alive at Eden Park.

Deans said his forwards were outplayed in every facet by the All Blacks in the opening clash last week in Sydney.

He’s calling for more commitment at the breakdown as the Wallabies aim to end a 26-year drought against New Zealand at Eden Park and stop a tenth straight Bledisloe series win for their trans-Tasman rivals.

Injury has forced three changes to Deans’ starting pack with captain David Pocock and prop Sekope Kepu both sidelined.

Michael Hooper who will be under the most pressure coming up against legendary All Blacks No7 Richie McCaw.

The loss of the world class Pocock is a massive blow for Australia, but Deans believes Hooper can inspire the side with his raw enthusiasm.

The Wallabies will take on the All Blacks at 7.35 tonight.


Story by: Aliki Bia