All Blacks built for moments like this – Read

Kieran Read insists the Bledisloe Cup decider with Australia will provide precisely the kind of high-pressure environment New Zealand thrive in.

The All Blacks suffered a stunning 47-26 loss to their rivals in Perth last time out, marking the highest points tally they have conceded in a Test and the joint-heaviest defeat in their proud history.

That result has given the Wallabies high hopes of a first series win over New Zealand since 2002 but Read says Steve Hansen’s side are ready to put the record straight at Eden Park on Saturday.

“When you put in a performance like that, you want to rectify it,” the captain said.

“We’ve got the chance this week, that’s the best thing about it. We’ve had a good week but it’s about putting it on the field.

“These moments are built for us as All Blacks and the way you’re going to respond is crucial.

Captains run #NZLvAUS pic.twitter.com/jtQVtmoNrv

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) August 16, 2019

“This is a mental game as much as a physical game, so it’s our response mentally and building up to the game in your head [that’s important]. You can’t do it all on the paddock.

“This group is hurting, that’s how it should be in an All Black jersey and we’ve got the chance to go out and rectify that and we’re excited by that.”

The weight of history heavily favours New Zealand this weekend, with the nation unbeaten in 25 years at Eden Park.

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