Mealamu: Tougher Tests to come

Keven Mealamu is under no illusions that the Tri-Nations series will present far greater challenges for New Zealand than they have encountered against either Ireland or Wales so far this month.

The hapless Irish self-destructed in New Plymouth and were never going to be a match for the All Blacks after having Jamie Heaslip sent off, ultimately crashing to a 66-28 defeat.

Warren Gatland’s men at least made a contest of it for 50 minutes but ultimately went the same way after the All Blacks, inspired by a superb performance from Dan Carter, ran riot in the second half to win comfortably in Dunedin.

While the All Blacks have been at their diplomatic best since their 42-9 victory at Carisbrook, the reality is the northern hemisphere teams are seen as an appetiser to the meatier challenge presented by Australia and South Africa over the coming months.

“There’s always a different style of rugby when you play the northern hemisphere teams,” Mealamu said.

“You’re probably a lot more familiar with the South African and Aussie teams and I suppose the pace will pick up again.

“It’s always tough because they are two of the best teams in the world as well. Those Tri-Nations Tests will definitely be a lot harder for us.”

The challenge for Wales in Hamilton is finding a way to match the All Blacks for 80 minutes.

After a solid first half in which they won the possession and territorial stakes and their rush defence had the All Blacks under pressure, they wilted once the New Zealanders clicked into gear.

But the Welsh players have been adamant fitness is not the issue, something reiterated by lock Bradley Davies.

“I’m not sure it’s fitness, because we pride ourselves on our fitness,” the Cardiff second-rower said.

“I think momentum is key here. Once they get momentum, they are quite hard to claw back.

“As soon as they get a quick try, they seem to follow it up with some good play and some more tries. It was disappointing as players, but we’ve got to learn and hopefully put it right next week.”

Injuries will have an effect on both teams as Gatland and Graham Henry contemplate changes to their line-ups.

Wales centre Andrew Bishop has been ruled out with a broken hand and fly-half Stephen Jones is in doubt with a damaged thumb.

Jonathan Davies seems set to partner Jamie Roberts in the midfield, while Dan Biggar will step in if Jones is ruled out.

But Gatland hinted there could be changes in the forwards as well where Rob McCusker could be in line to start ahead of Gavin Thomas on the openside.

The All Blacks have concerns over lock Anthony Boric (cheekbone), Israel Dagg (concussion), Conrad Smith (eye) and Daniel Carter (tight calf).

Boric, Dagg and Smith appear to be the most serious but assistant coach Wayne Smith said none of them will be risked if they are not fully fit.

If Carter is ruled out it means a first start for up-and-coming pivot Aaron Cruden, while Tom Donnelly and Sam Whitelock are the options in the second row.

Richard Kahui is like to replace Smith at centre and at full-back Mils Muliaina or Cory Jane can slot in.

Henry names his team on Tuesday.