Ronan O'Gara: The key tour takeaway? All Black mystique is now a thing of the past for Irish rugby

One of the cornerstones of All Black rugby heritage is the ability to score from anywhere or off anything. I don’t see it now

OUT IN FRONT: Tadhg Beirne of Ireland makes a break away from the defence during the International Test match between the New Zealand All Blacks and Ireland at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand. Pic: Joe Allison/Getty Images

Thu, 14 Jul, 2022 - 20:25

Ronan O’Gara

An Irish rugby legend and record‑setting out‑half turned elite coach with La Rochelle. A prominent pundit known for frank, compelling, agenda-setting analysis.

WHEN the All Black and Ireland players head down the tunnel in Wellington on Saturday and out of this test series, their respective seasons go fore and aft. The scrutiny on New Zealand and their management will continue into the two-test series against world champions South Africa. And doubtless, beyond.

Ireland’s players will have their kit and kin ready when they arrive home to head off on family holidays. As much as they would want to compartmentalise their professional lives, the result and performance in Wellington will linger well into their summer break.