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Aplon, who played 17 Tests, said on the Behind the Ruck podcast he was on alert because of the potential Scott Barrett’s side showed in the Lipovitan D Rugby Championship.
“I’m always wary about the All Blacks. I’m always wary about what is next, what are they going to do?”
Aplon said the All Blacks are a side in transition under new coach Scott Robertson.
“For five cycles, they had the same kind of voice, or a voice stayed. It’s the first time also they have a new coaching staff, the chosen one, who’s Robertson, who comes from Super Rugby.”
They are rebuilding but are still competitive.
“Yes, they lost to Argentina in New Zealand, but to lose to the No1 team [South Africa] in the world, the trendsetters, by opportunities, they’re going somewhere.”
Aplon said several factors worked in the All Blacks’ favour before the next World Cup. They would tour South Africa in 2026, and their continued participation in Super Rugby was another consideration.
With the World Cup in Australia, New Zealand players would be playing their Super Rugby in Australian conditions for the next three seasons.
“They’re going to play in Brisbane. They’re going to play in Perth [or] wherever. So they’re going to get used to their conditions.”
While critics have said Super Rugby lacks physicality without South African sides participating, Aplon said that wouldn’t be a problem for the All Blacks.
“Come 2026, they’re coming to South Africa. So [while] we always say Super Rugby lacks the physicality, they’re going to come and play eight games in South Africa to make up for that physicality.
“They’re going to be the best-prepared side going to the World Cup.”
