End of an Era: All Blacks Aim to Honour Cane and Perenara in Turin Finale

Farewelling two key contributors to the All Blacks, flanker Sam Cane and halfback TJ Perenara, is on the side's minds as they prepare for their last Test of 2024 against Italy in Turin on Sunday (NZT).

Centre Rieko Ioane said there is a motivation in the side to ensure the pair are able to end their Test careers with a good performance.

"The footprint they've left in this jersey and their legacy are remarkable. They've inspired so many people. They've both been doing it for such a long time. An awesome way to see them out is to honour them with a performance.

The game is also significant for Ioane who made his Test debut against Italy eight years ago.

"I was extremely young then, and eager, and that hunger and passion hasn't changed."

He said the All Blacks want to finish the season with a win. They reviewed their loss to France and now are determined to finish as they started, on a high.

"We're focused solely on the performance and that comes from a great week's preparation which we have had so far."

Regarding the season overall, he said there had been so much growth in the side.

"The thing that is on everyone's mind is making sure we can honour our players who are leaving. It will be the last time this group are together. But that comes down to how we prepare and how we perform on Saturday."

Turin is not a rugby city, and Ioane said football was the preferred sport. Several side members visited the Juventus club home and were impressed with the facilities of one of the great club sides of the world game.

But, he said, the All Blacks had been recognised when they were out and about in the city.

"With such rich [football] history, you don't expect too many people to realise who the All Blacks are, but it's always nice taking photos with fans."

Wing Mark Tele'a, who will play after recovering from the hand injury that kept him out of the France Test, said being able to experience Turin has been a great experience, and he and other members of the side enjoyed visiting the commercial centre of the city while also getting to visit chapels they had only seen in movies was impressive.

However, the weather could have been better.

"It's been freezing. We had the sun yesterday but it should be cold when we play."

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