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FWC: AUS v EGY from 5am, SN ExtraTony Johnson: Keys to All Blacks success vs France
Elena Abbott • July 3rd, 2026 2:58 pm
Dave Rennie | Photo: Photosport
The All Blacks must seize their opportunities if they are to dispatch a physical French team this weekend, according to rugby broadcaster and Sport Nation host Tony Johnson.
Speaking to Mark Stafford on Sport Nation Afternoons, Johnson pointed out the New Zealanders' trend of shaky Test season openers, something he believes needs remedying.
“We do tend to have a habit of starting the year a bit scratchy,” Johnson said.
“I don't think they can afford a sloppy start this year. I think they have to hit the ground running.”
With new head coach Dave Rennie at the helm, the All Blacks are expected to switch up their typical game plan, utilising the back row to play the ball forward.
Johnson believes Rennie’s coaching style emboldens players to take on the opposition's defence, a strategy he notes harkens to his days in Super Rugby.
“That was a hallmark of Dave Rennie's teams at the Chiefs,” Johnson explained.
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“Once the ball got into their back line the message was clear. You guys are smart enough, you see the opening in front. If you see an opportunity, you go.”
The change of focus in the All Blacks camp means the players will want to play with tempo, as they have a clear understanding of Rennie’s expectations, he adds.
However, Johnson offered accompanying words of caution, urging a careful and controlled approach to taking those quick chances when they present themselves.
Erratic performances are not what the All Blacks want and unpredictable plays aren’t compatible with Test match rugby, he explained.
“It doesn't mean a helter-skelter approach to the game. Test Rugby doesn't allow for a helter-skelter type of game to prevail,” Johnson said.
Above all else, Johnson warns the All Blacks must be thoroughly prepared for a French squad that will be considerably stronger than that which visited this time last year.
The Test kicks off Saturday, 7.10pm - the first international match played at Christchurch’s Te Kaha.
Listen to the full interview below:
