Munster boss McMillan 'was massive' for All Blacks new boy Parker 

Injuries and form slowed his breakthrough but a recent arrival to Ireland played a significant role in getting him to the elite level — Munster coach Clayton McMillan.

Simon Parker of New Zealand on attack. Pic: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

Scott Robertson and New Zealand crossed the equator for autumn duty on a wave of much-need positivity after back-to-back victories over the Wallabies. If their rollercoaster Rugby Championship results didn’t look like the All Blacks on paper, there was a fresher appearance in the flesh too.

Among those brought north for a tilt at a Grand Slam against Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales, there is a flock of newer faces.