Rugby: All Blacks confirm their class

All Blacks player Ben Smith (left) celebrates with teammate Aaron Smith after scoring a try...
All Blacks player Ben Smith (left) celebrates with teammate Aaron Smith after scoring a try during their Bledisloe Cup rugby test match against Australia at Stadium Australia in Sydney. Photo by Reuters
Following a comprehensive 47-29 drubbing by the All Blacks, Australian turned their eyes to the coaching box, only to remember they can no longer blame a New Zealander for their own short-comings.

With new coach Ewen Mckenzie at the helm, the Australians fancied their chances of upsetting the All Blacks ahead of the opening Bledisloe Cup clash in Sydney.

Mckenzie had started the process of forming a new-look Wallabies side by naming five uncapped players in his squad, the most notable change being the selection of young Brumbies first-five Matt Toomua ahead of Quade Cooper.

The All Blacks had lost Dan Carter and Liam Messam through injury and Richie McCaw finding his feet again after his six-month sabbatical, making them seem a vulnerable target.

In the opening half, the Wallabies' hopes would have remained somewhat intact. It was a relatively even encounter, due many unnecessary penalties at the breakdown by the All Blacks.

In the second half, however, the All Blacks shut the gate on any chance the Wallabies had of claiming the match, pouncing on Australian mistakes and proving their class.

There were many strong performances from the All Blacks, but man of the match Aaron Cruden stood head and shoulders above the rest.

The Chiefs first-five looked comfortable in his role, duplicating the form he showed in Super Rugby and moving well outside Dan Carter's shadow.

Ben Smith also confirmed his class, crossing the white chalk three times to join a select group of All Blacks who have scored a hat-trick against the Wallabies.

While some players are beginning to cement their roles, it became clear that for one All Black in particular, it is the beginning of the end.

McCaw worked hard and claimed a handful of turnovers at the breakdown and one five-pointer, but his usual high standard appeared somewhat diminished.

It may be some time before McCaw hangs up his jersey for good, but the end appears very much in sight for the All Black captain.

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