Smal has faith in Ireland pack

Gert Smal is confident the Ireland pack have the power to match New Zealand in Saturday’s Test in New Plymouth.

All Blacks forwards coach Steve Hansen has been talking up his pack in the build-up to the match at Yarrow Stadium, claiming the New Zealand eight can “physically dominate” their Irish opponents thanks largely to the presence of Crusaders players Ben and Owen Franks, Brad Thorn, captain Richie McCaw and Kieran Read, who performed strongly in the Super 14.