Larder full of praise for All Blacks

Recently appointed Lions defensive coach Phil Larder has said the All Blacks remain the ultimate challenge in world rugby ahead of the Lions' 2005 tour to New Zealand.

Larder, who toured Australia in 2001 with the Lions and went on three Rugby League Lions' tours, said that the challenge awaiting the best of Britain and Ireland was immense.

"The All Blacks epitomise to me the pinnacle of international rugby, they are an outstanding nation, they are brilliant players," said Larder.

"I worked with Graham Henry on the last tour, I know Steve Hansen and I know Wayne Smith from his time at Northampton. New Zealand have got three outstanding coaches working with them; it will be a massive, massive challenge.

"But we have got some great players over here and I am really excited about working with the other coaches and what will be three massive internationals against the All Blacks," he added.

Larder said that despite some negative press, four years on from Australia he was raring to go.

"I have heard that there was not a lot of enjoyment on the 2001 tour but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I embrace the Lions concept and I am very excited about 2005."