Will Jordan scored twice as New Zealand survived a major scare against France to open the inaugural Nations Championship with a captivating nine-try victory in Christchurch.
The prolific wing struck in the seventh and 71st minutes to hand new All Blacks boss Dave Rennie a winning start, moving within two tries of Doug Howlett’s New Zealand record of 49.
Peter Lakai and outstanding scrum-half Cam Roigard, who crossed twice, were also on target for the hosts.
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However, Six Nations champions France pushed the All Blacks all the way despite travelling without several leading names, including Antoine Dupont and Louis Bielle-Biarrey.
Damian Penaud, Antoine Hastoy, Theo Attissogbe and Matthieu Jalibert all crossed for Les Bleus, who also had a second-half score ruled out following a Max Spring knock-on before Fabien Brau-Boirie touched down.
New Zealand now host Italy next weekend, while France travel to Australia.
Despite starting his tenure with a victory, Rennie may be tempted to make several changes following a performance that exposed some worrying weaknesses.
Here are four changes the All Blacks boss should consider.
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OUT: Josh Lord
Lord worked hard throughout but struggled to make a significant impact on proceedings.
The lock produced a solid carry around the half-hour mark and threw himself into contact on both sides of the ball, but there was little else to suggest his place should be guaranteed against Italy.
His second-row partner comfortably outshone him, and Rennie could use the next fixture as an opportunity to make a change.
IN: Tupou Vaa’i
Vaa’i would bring greater dynamism and physicality to the All Blacks pack.
With Italy likely to provide a significant challenge up front, his carrying ability and defensive presence could give New Zealand greater control in the tight exchanges.
