ABs will beat illness - Hansen
Nov 29,2012
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen expects to be able to field his best side for Saturday's Test against England despite the squad falling victim to the norovirus sweeping Britain.
Only two members of the world champions' playing party have escaped the vomiting and diarrhoea bug, which first struck the tourists before Saturday's 33-10 win over Wales in Cardiff.
However, the All Blacks believe they have now come through the worst of the illness and Hansen is not anticipating making any late changes to his matchday 23 this weekend.
"It's been a difficult week because a lot of guys have been sick with diarrhoea and vomiting," Hansen said after naming his team on Thursday.
"Getting the mix right in training has been difficult. Hopefully, we have been smart enough to keep the tanks full to play well.
"There are only two players who have escaped the virus. It started in Wales and has just continued.
"Apparently, half the UK have got it. If you hang around the team hotel too long we will give it to you too. It's a present from the colonials."
Number eight Kieran Read, who suffered from the virus Wednesday, said he has made a quick recovery.
"Personally I'm feeling a lot better today. The boys had a good guided tour of the bathrooms yesterday on their day off.
"It's a 24-hour thing. It's just something you have to handle and we'll be all right for Saturday."
Comments (5)
Nov 29, 2012 at 22:00:12
Thought it would be food poisoning???? pull the other one Hansen it's got bells on it pal.
Nov 29, 2012 at 23:06:37
Andre Hore tackled the hotel chef allready and apologised so the hotel are not pressing charges. A hore has been in regular contact with the chef since he woke up in hospital.
Nov 29, 2012 at 20:41:48
Surprised the ABs haven't accused the English of deliberately poisoning them as they did in SA prior to the '95 WC Final.