The All Blacks departed for South Africa this morning where they will tackle the Springboks in back-to-back Tests in Nelspruit and Johannesburg.

The All Blacks are under pressure to return to winning ways following their series defeat to Ireland.

All Blacks flyhalf, Beauden Barrett, said they are in high spirits heading to South Africa.

“It's one that we need right now because touring South Africa is right up there as one of the highlights of playing rugby, and is as big a test as you'll ever get.

“It's a great place to tour and play an intense and fair style of rugby – that's what we're expecting anyway.

“It's great for this team, it's what we need right now, a good challenge for us. We're tight, there's no doubt about that, so what a place to go to, to test ourselves.

“I'm confident we'll bounce back.”

The Springboks and All Blacks face each other next week Saturday at the Mbombela Stadium with kick-off at 17:05.

All Blacks squad - Dane Coles, Samisoni Taukeiaho, Codie Taylor, Aidan Ross, George Bower, Nepo Laulala, Fletcher Newell, Ethan de Groot, Angus Ta'avao, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tupou Vaa'i, Samuel Whitelock, Sam Cane (captain), Shannon Frizell, Akira Ioane, Dalton Papalii, Ardie Savea, Hoskins Sotutu, Finlay Christie, Folau Fakatava, Aaron Smith, Beauden Barrett, Richie Mo'unga, Stephen Perofeta, Jack Goodhue, David Havili, Rieko Ioane, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Quinn Tupaea, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Will Jordan, Sevu Reece.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport