New Zealand v Ireland: Andy Farrell’s side ‘will genuinely believe they can beat us’ – Rennie

Despite already playing twice on home soil in the inaugural Nations Championship, New Zealand will relish a return to Eden Park, where they have not lost a Test since France were the victors in 1994.

However, the New Zealand coach said they cannot rest on their laurels when they welcome an Ireland side who are unbeaten in six games.

“It’s always nice going to Eden Park. It’ll be nice having a lot of supporters cheering for us,” he continued.

“It’s been a fortress, but what’s happened in the past counts for little. It’s about us making sure we get our prep right and mindset right.

“To play against an Irish side who, last time they toured this country, they won a series.”

Rennie also added the importance of closing down New Zealand-born scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park.

Gibson-Park crossed during Ireland’s tight 33-31 victory over Australia but did not feature in the much-changed team that faced Japan.

“Leinster have had a massive influence on Irish rugby for a lot of years. I like their combinations. They’re really strong. Jamison’s a big part of their success.

“We need to make life difficult for him so he can’t play on the front foot and apply pressure that way.”