England’s First Rugby Union Tour to New Zealand in a Decade Fuels Respect and Admiration
As England’s national rugby union team prepares to face the mighty All Blacks in a highly anticipated two-Test series in New Zealand, the visiting players have expressed profound respect and admiration for their Kiwi counterparts. George Furbank, the Northampton full-back who has reclaimed the Red Rose No 15 shirt, has openly shared his lifelong fascination with the All Blacks’ playing style and its influence on his own development.
Furbank, who is set to line up against the All Blacks at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin on Saturday, spoke passionately about the impact of New Zealand rugby on his career. He credited Northampton’s head coach, the Kiwi Chris Boyd, for instilling a similar philosophy of “playing to space” and empowering young players to express their talents without fear of mistakes.
“The way the All Blacks play the game has always fascinated me. They have a unique ability to seize opportunities from anywhere on the pitch, and that’s something I’ve really tried to emulate in my own game.”
The 27-year-old England international has clearly been inspired by the All Blacks’ ability to seize opportunities from anywhere on the pitch, a trait he has emulated at the club level. Furbank’s admiration extends beyond the current generation, as he fondly recalls the exploits of legendary Kiwi players such as Beauden Barrett, Ben Smith, and Israel Dagg, who were his “rugby idols” growing up.
As England prepares to face the challenge of the reigning world champions, the visitors are well aware of the traditional qualities and threats posed by the All Blacks. However, the tourists will do their homework to ensure they are fully equipped to counter the home team’s strengths, regardless of any changes under new head coach Scott Robertson.
The upcoming series promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams vying for supremacy on the international stage. While England will undoubtedly aim to secure a historic victory, the players have displayed a profound respect and appreciation for the rugby union tradition and excellence that New Zealand has long embodied.
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