Unveiling the Insider Secrets: The Behind-the-Scenes Guide to All Blacks in Rugby World Cup 2023

The All Blacks: A Journey Like No Other

Remembering the first day at school or starting a new job always brings back feelings of excitement mixed with fear. Those moments when we try our best not to stand out or make mistakes.

But imagine being in that position and becoming an All Black, one of rugby’s most revered teams in history. In their remarkable 139-year journey, only a little over 1,200 men have had the privilege of donning the iconic black jersey.

With a winning percentage surpassing any other men’s team at over 77% and three Rugby World Cup victories under their belt – more than any other nation – the legacy of the All Blacks extends beyond sports into broader realms of success.

Richard Kahui vividly recalls his arrival as a nervous 23-year-old into camp back in 2008. “I didn’t want to disappoint anyone,” he admits. “Being late for meetings or dropping a ball during training was my worst nightmare.”

The first day meant meeting the team manager, receiving your room key and all your brand-new kit – an experience akin to Christmas morning. Yet it was later that evening when Kahui would truly understand what it meant to be part of this prestigious group.

A Revelation from Two Senior Players

In modern times, players may receive international call-ups through WhatsApp groups without much fanfare. But back in 2004, Conrad Smith discovered his selection quite publicly.

“I wasn’t even planning on listening to the announcement,” Smith recalls. “I was alone in my flat with a sandwich in hand when I realized it was time and turned on the radio.”

The names were called out alphabetically, and as he heard an opposing center being announced, Smith thought his moment hadn’t arrived yet. However, when they reached the S’s, his name resonated through the airwaves.

Four years later, Richard Kahui found himself without access to a radio during selection day. Desperate for news of his All Blacks call-up, he phoned his best friend Stephen Donald – who had been selected ahead of him – begging for updates.

“Donald’s family could be heard screaming with joy before quieting down,” Kahui says. “Then suddenly my name was mentioned further down the list.”

In that instant, phones started ringing and tears filled living rooms around New Zealand as proud parents celebrated their sons’ remarkable achievement.

A Sacred Haka

The All Blacks are renowned for their pre-match haka ritual – one of rugby’s most iconic spectacles. It is not intended to intimidate opponents; rather it is deeply personal to them. Some of their most moving performances occur away from cameras and confrontations.

Conrad Smith explains how this sacred process plays out: “When you join this special group, there is a journey you embark upon together – especially on tours where new players come into play.”

“During my first tour [Europe 2004], we had seven or eight debutants alongside me. We would share our stories about our backgrounds and where we came from while welcoming each other in.”

“The first haka we perform facing established players holds great significance. With the full team present, it becomes an incredibly powerful moment where we discuss not just the haka, but also the jersey, the legacy, and the proud history of being an All Black. It’s our chance to embrace it all.”

With a resounding message echoing through their minds – “Don’t be daunted; you belong here” – these players step onto those hallowed fields ready to write their own chapter in All Blacks history.