Staying Grounded: All Blacks Seek Fresh Focus After Ireland Triumph

Keeping minds focused and not dwelling on successes already achieved is high on the All Blacks' list of priorities ahead of Sunday's [NZT] Test with France in Paris.

Halfback Cam Roigard said reviewing well was always a challenge after wins and, after a satisfying win like that over Ireland, it was important not to pat yourselves on the back too much.

"You do have to go in-depth with your review and preview. We've had some big games back-to-back and a big one this weekend, so it's about making sure we're in the best position possible to get the result we want.

"France plays a little different to Ireland, have some superstars in their teams and can pull something out of nothing, so the awareness around that is the slight change or difference, but we're trying to build on the momentum we've got so far."

Roigard said he was enjoying achieving his goal of getting back from injury to be involved in the tour and has been happy with his role of coming off the bench in the three Test matches played.

"To get the results we're after in tight games against great sides are the games you want to play in, and contributing what I have so far is pleasing. And, whatever comes in the next few weeks, I can keep putting my hand up and doing whatever is best for the team.

It would be exciting to have the chance to play against France's leader, Antoine du Pont.

"It's exciting, he's got a great skill set, and he has the ability to make or break games. He can create line breaks from nothing or put his side in the right areas of the field to win games, so if I do get to go against him, it will be an exciting opportunity to play against the best. That's where you're really tested.

"Collectively, as a team, we've had two big Tests and the challenge for us is to back it up again, against a quality French side in their backyard."

Starting with the team on tour, he said he felt like his season was just beginning, albeit a short season, but with the others having played a longer season, he could contribute some freshness to the side.

Assistant coach Jason Ryan said while there were mixed memories from last year's Rugby World Cup games played at Stade de France, it was one of several great stadiums they have played at during the tour, but they have a different team in 2024, and he is excited about where they are headed as they look to beat France, who they haven't beaten for a while.

Ryan said the side's success has provided some selection headaches, especially in his area of expertise with the forwards.

"The front row selections are the toughest I've had in my coaching career with the competition that's out there. That's a credit to all the boys. They're all working extremely hard and it makes for some tough conversations in the next couple of days."

Ryan said Ethan de Groot was being considered for the Test, as he had been for Ireland, but missed out when the selectors rewarded form. That could happen when other players were given a chance.

He said Ofa Tu'ungafasi was an unsung hero for his performances off the bench.

"His experience, his professionalism and how he helps the younger boys and challenges the experienced guys has been world-class."

He said most of the props were young players with significant career ceilings and unlimited potential.

"They're doing well in their international careers and they're going from strength to strength."