Smith: All Blacks will improve for Boks showdown

WAYNE SMITH has conceded New Zealand were a “little rusty” against Australia in their opening Tri-Nations fixture last weekend but insists they will improve when they come up against South Africa on Saturday.

The All Blacks struggled through the opening half in Auckland when they trailed 13-3 at the break, before storming back in the second period to seal a 22-16 victory.

The New Zealanders, who are the defending champions and will be bidding for a fifth consecutive title in 2009, are widely considered as third favourites to win this year’s competition.