All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson insists that it is vital the sport does everything it can to speed up the game and prevent unnecessary delays.
New Zealand are renowned for the pace they look to play at but they and Ireland found themselves frustrated by last weekend’s clash in Chicago.
While the errors – very much the fault of the respective teams – contributed to a long first half, it was not helped by the extended stoppage following Tadhg Beirne’s high shot on Beauden Barrett.
The big screen in the stadium was not showing the collision and, as a result, the officials had to view it on a monitor at the side of the pitch.
Boos in Chicago
The game was duly delayed and it led to boos ringing out from the stands, not exactly showing the sport in a good light on its big day in the US.
Robertson revealed that he has since discussed with the relevant people at World Rugby, as part of the usual feedback, how rugby can be quicker.
“Those conversations, what do they say – praise in public and discuss in private – so there are just different ways that we can speed our game up,” he told reporters ahead of their November Test against Scotland at Murrayfield.
“It’s important. A lot of eyes are on us and we’ve got to make sure it’s a spectacle, and a game that flows. Nothing out of shape has happened but you definitely give feedback along the way so that we can make improvements to our game.”
Robertson will hope, and perhaps expect, Saturday’s clash in Edinburgh to be a quicker game, with Scotland renowned for their expansive style of play.
They are guided at fly-half by Finn Russell and the All Blacks boss has a huge amount of respect for the Bath playmaker.
“He could always play, he would just throw that ball. He’s just so instinctive but I’m so impressed by his longevity in the game,” he said.
“He’s probably improved with age and maturity – he just plays the game with so much freedom. Obviously, his technical kicking is pretty special as well, so he’s got a great all-round game.”
All Blacks centre partnership
It will partially be the job of the makeshift All Blacks centre pairing to stop the talented Russell, with Jordie Barrett’s injury forcing a reshuffle.
Quinn Tupaea will line up in Barrett’s position at inside centre while Leicester Fainga’anuku comes in alongside him at 13.
They combined in Chicago following the 28-year-old’s early withdrawal at Soldier Field, but it will be a slightly different challenge trying to replicate it from the start.
“They got to play a lot of footy together last weekend, which was great, and so did the locks. It wasn’t in the most positive way with the injuries, but guys got a chance to get out there early and play together for a period of time. They played some great footy,” Robertson said.
“The midfield’s tough, it’s a competitive position, it’s hard to make calls and they’re pleased they’ve got the opportunity and they’ll take it again.”