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Unofficial’ champions

NZPA; Correspondent London The All- Blacks were proclaimed unofficial world rugby champions in London yesterday, after the massive te?t win over . Scotland on Saturday. The arch-critic of New Zealand rugby, Welshman J. B. G. Thomas, crowned Graham Mourie’s side himself. . Writing in the Cardiff-based “Western Mail”, he said: Having beaten Wales last season, there is no reason other than to believe.that at full strength, the All Blacks have the best side of the international board couri- ~ tries” — Scotland, Ireland, Eng-

land, Wales, France, Australia and South Africa. There was no point in the home countries touring as individuals, expecting test wins in New Zealand. "It ,is never easy for the Lions,” Thomas said, “and it would be very difficult for the • Springboks — on and off the field. ' In “The Times,” lain MacKen-' lie who has toured with the team in New Zealand, said ,of .the All Blacks: "They are simply better rugby players. They go in hard ' and fast for every ball, they do .not ask for mercy and they do not expect to hand any out,'’

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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/CHP19810623.2.58

Bibliographic details

Press, 23 June 1981, Page 6

Word Count
179

Unofficial’ champions Press, 23 June 1981, Page 6

Unofficial’ champions Press, 23 June 1981, Page 6