Cautious Hansen urges All Blacks not to get sidetracked by record

All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen has challenged his players not to get sidetracked by their pursuit of a perfect year and concentrate purely on the business of beating Ireland in Dublin next Sunday.

World champions New Zealand stretched their unbeaten record for the year to 13 wins from 13 when they overcame England at Twickenham on Saturday and can close out their season with a 100% record if they can dispatch the Irish at the Aviva Stadium.

Hansen, though, is wary that his all-conquering side could fall into the trap of putting the cart before the horse as they get within touching distance of legendary status.