AUCKLAND (Reuters) - All Blacks coach Steve Hansen on Thursday moved to allay fears his world champion side were becoming stagnant, saying the uneven performances of 2017 were just part of the natural life-cycle of the team. Hansen, however, said the team's travails were of no concern on the road to the 2019 World Cup in Japan. The All Blacks have been impatient during the Rugby Championship, trying to force things at a high pace. 'KIDDING YOURSELF'Hansen's brilliant record since succeeding Graham Henry after the 2011 World Cup win has set a high benchmark. Last year they won 13 of 14 including all six Rugby Championship matches.

Source: The Star September 14, 2017 07:30 UTC