All Blacks No.8 Kieran Read says the heightened awareness and intent associated with the play‑off stages of the Rugby World Cup is something they are preparing for.
Read says they are preparing for the top French side to turn up for the game on Sunday morning.
Meanwhile fellow loose forward Jerome Kaino says the All Blacks made a step in the right direction against Tonga and after a couple of days indoors assessing their opponents it had been good to get onto the pitch yesterday to start putting things together.
Prop Charlie Faumuina also admitted that it was tough not having the injured Tony Woodcock playing.
The All Blacks will take on France at 7am Sunday in their quarter final.
Coach Steve Hansen is expected to name his starting lineup later today.
