It seems like the All Blacks approach this landmark every second or third year.
The picture that summed up New Zealand’s current international dominance was surely captured at the weekend as Argentina shipped try and try after try…. after try.
Another three tries followed and Argentina, who knocked Ireland out of last year’s World Cup, were throttled 57-22.
While Gatland gets to cobble together the best (and least injured) of Britain and Ireland, Joe Schmidt will console himself that he will be taking on the All Blacks away from their home turf. There is simply no beating the ABs on their patch.
There seems to be no beating Steve Hansen’s men anywhere. Since beating Australia in last year’s Rugby Championship, New Zealand have won 14 Tests on the bounce. That includes the win that reclaimed the Bledisloe Cup a triumphant World Cup run and a dominant start to this season’s Rugby Championship.
At present, they are on a 14 match winning streak. Three more games remain in the championship, with South Africa up next in Christchurch. Win all three and they will equal a Tier One record for consecutive wins.
That would tee up New Zealand versus Ireland at Soldier Field, on November 5, as a record breaker.
The following week would see the Kiwis take on Italy at Stadio Olimpico before a return date with Ireland at the Aviva Stadium. Given the way the world champions are putting teams to the sword, it is conceivable that Ireland could be victims No.18 and 20 on a remarkable run.
New Zealand would be favourites to beat South Africa at the weekend but away games against Argentina and the Springboks could yet trip them up.
The overall record fr consecutive wins across all tiers is the 24 racked up by Cyprus between 2008 and 2014.
The GAA Hour took their show on the road to Castlebar to preview the All-Ireland final with Colm Parkinson, James Horan and some very special guests. Listen below or subscribe here on iTunes.
