Collision Course in Turin: All Blacks Brace for Italy’s Passion

Putting the frustrations of their 29-30 loss to France aside and concentrating on the prospect of a physical Italy pack is the challenge for the All Blacks ahead of their final Test of 2024 in Turin on Sunday (NZT).

Lock Tupou Vaa'i said the Paris loss was frustrating due to the opportunities untaken, but that has been replaced by the need to prepare for Italy.

"We played them in the World Cup last year and we know they've got a high skill set, especially their backs. They're really physical, especially Negri, he's their most dominant loosie."

Vaa'i said that while he has carried a significant workload this year, he is physically and mentally in good shape.

"It's the last Test, but I've still got a job to do."

One of the tour's lessons has been how opposing sides lift themselves to play the All Blacks.

"We've seen that these last few weeks and that's no different from Italy this weekend. It's been good to come over to this side of the world, and we have put our best foot forward and challenged ourselves against these top teams.

"We're not treating Italy any different to other teams. We're respecting them and we know what's coming and we know they're going to be passionate."

Assistant coach Tamati Ellison said they were still waiting to see how Jordie Barrett's knee injury was recovering, but it is unlikely he will play over the weekend.

The All Blacks expect Italy to be physically in contact and collisions, and if they get the ball, they will be dangerous on the counterattack.

"They've got some great ball carriers and some explosiveness in their back three.

Cooler conditions are forecast for the game, with a prospect of snow. That was something Ellison experienced while playing in Japan. His concern was if the ground was frosted.

"The snow's similar to rain, but it's if the ground has thawed out, otherwise, it's a bit like playing on concrete."

Ellison said there had not been time to assess an overall view of the team's progressions during the season.

"We judge every week. We look at our performance and review, looking for solutions and ways to improve. So, week on week and game on game, we're always looking for improvements.

"We haven't had a chance to sit down and reflect over the season in total.

"The weeks probably move too fast and we have respect for the next team we're playing. That's what is important at the moment."