England’s Jamie George Embraces the Challenge of Facing the All Blacks in New Zealand
England rugby union captain Jamie George is urging his team to fully embrace the challenge of taking on the mighty All Blacks during their upcoming tour of New Zealand. The visitors arrived in Auckland fresh off a commanding 52-17 victory over Japan, which marked a strong start to their stern summer examination.
Despite England’s underwhelming record against the All Blacks, boasting just 8 wins in 43 Test matches and only 2 victories on New Zealand soil, George is excited for the opportunity to compete against the world’s best. “My message to the team is to soak it in, to love it and to enjoy it,” the hooker told New Zealand broadcaster TVNZ. “This is what rugby for me is all about – coming out to tours like this, to hostile places and trying to compete against the best.”
George’s comments came as the England squad visited a food bank in west Auckland run by All Blacks great Sir Michael Jones, where they offered to pack food boxes and brought along Yorkshire Tea. “We couldn’t respect Michael any more,” the captain remarked. “I am sure my old man will be buzzing (that I’ve met him).”
The Upcoming Two-Test Series
The upcoming two-Test series, beginning on July 6, will mark the first time the All Blacks have gathered since finishing as runners-up to South Africa at the 2023 World Cup. With head coach Ian Foster departing and former Crusaders boss Scott Robertson taking the reins, George admits there is an “element of the unknown” in their preparations.
“The challenge is almost not being blown away by the skill level and the physicality,” he said. “The style of play they’re probably going to play is likely to be similar to the Crusaders.”
England’s resurgence under new head coach Steve Borthwick, showcased by their strong displays against Ireland and France in the Six Nations, has set the stage for a captivating clash of rugby union titans on the All Blacks’ home turf.
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