Codie Taylor reveals Rennie's standards as All Blacks prepare for France opener

Codie Taylor has described Dave Rennie as a commanding presence who demands relentless effort, as the All Blacks gear up for their first Test of 2026 against France in Christchurch on Saturday.

The veteran hooker was speaking to media after the All Blacks squad and new management convened in Auckland last Wednesday, leaving just ten days to prepare for the opener — which also marks the first match of the new Nations Championship between the Southern and Northern Hemispheres.

“He definitely owns the room when he speaks,” Taylor said. “But in a way that it is not daunting, just in a way that you respect and you know the words he says is what he wants out there on the field. So, yeah, it’s been really cool to see him and how he works.”

Taylor, a Test centurion, said Rennie’s early messaging has centred on the effort areas of the game rather than complex systems. “I think just what he wants from us as players, in terms of work ethic — making sure we are working hard off the ball, and then just always looking for opportunities,” Taylor explained. “He doesn’t take mediocrity lightly. But it’s been good.”

Rennie, who returned to New Zealand after guiding the Kobelco Kobe Steelers to a Japan Rugby League One title, confirmed on Sunday that Will Jordan, Tupou Vaa’i, and Wallace Sititi are all available for selection after injury concerns.

The head coach outlined a straightforward game plan for the Test. “A lot of it is about a simple structure from an attacking point of view, getting a really good connection defensively and we just want the guys to get out there and be really clear and play,” Rennie said. “What we know is that we will have a dry ball, and that’s exciting.”

France arrive as 2026 Six Nations champions but without several Toulouse-based players, who are involved in club action this weekend. Rennie was quick to dismiss any notion that this weakens the visitors, pointing to the depth of French rugby. “There will be 11 players from Bordeaux, who are the European champions,” he said. “France have 28 professional sides. They have the greatest depth in world rugby, so have always got a lot of quality players to pick from. They will be a good side.”