Bledisloe heartbreak fuelling ABs' long Cup hold
All Blacks coach Tana Umaga is emphasizing the historical significance of the Bledisloe Cup to his players ahead of the upcoming match against the Wallabies. The team is looking to bounce back from a series loss to South Africa and maintain their long-standing dominance in the tournament.
Why it matters
The Bledisloe Cup is a major event in international rugby, and the cultural and historical weight of the rivalry is a key driver for team performance and fan engagement.
<p>All Blacks great Tana Umaga has drilled into the current crop just how much Bledisloe Cup retention means to him now he's part of the coaching staff.</p> <p>The former captain has transitioned from head coach of the axed Moana Pasifika to act as defence coach under new All Blacks mentor Dave Rennie.</p> <p>Still disappointed by their 3-1 series loss to South Africa, New Zealand will look to vent their frustrations in Saturday's Eden Park Bledisloe Cup opener in Auckland.</p> <p>"That sticks in the guts a bit; we have to come out with a response after that," Umaga said. </p> <p>"There should be no hesitation around understanding what this weekend means to us."
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