3 Jul 2017

All Blacks ready for revenge

3:58 pm on 3 July 2017

The All Blacks are itching to put Saturday's second test loss behind them ahead of this weekend's series decider against the British and Irish Lions, according halfback Aaron Smith.

Aaron Smith of the All Blacks during the Investec Rugby Championship match, All Blacks v South Africa ,AMI Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand, 17th September 2016.

All Blacks half back Aaron Smith. Photo: Photosport

The three match series is locked at one-all after the Lions narrowly won the second test in Wellington 24-21

Smith said he enjoys the pressure of the series coming down to one final game.

The 28-year-old veteran said he was disappointed in Saturday's performance, and wants to play to today to get his revenge.

"It's what you play rugby for these big games.

"These are the ones (games) you remember. It''s going to be a long week in prep but it will be all worth it if we do those little things right," Smith said.

All Black second five Sonny Bill Williams become the first New Zealand player in 50 years to be red carded in Saturday's test after his shoulder connected with the face of Lions winger Anthony Watson during a tackle.

Williams has since been suspended for four weeks and will be unavailable for the decisive third test match at Eden Park.

Originally unwanted by the All Blacks, Highlanders midfielder Malakai Fekitoa has been recalled to the squad as cover for Williams.

Smith said his Highlanders team mate is excited to be back in the All Blacks environment.

"He'll go hard and do his job really well."

"He knows what he has to do and just seeing him and being around him he's really happy to be here."

- RNZ