The All Blacks props were in the thick of the action at the team's weight session on Monday, preparing their bodies to shoulder the load of their imposing Argentinian counterparts this weekend.
Props are built to squat and there's no better example of that than veteran Owen Franks.
The Crusaders veteran was all business at the Tasman Mako weightroom, stacking the bar until it sagged, as he pumped out three reps of 200kg with ease.
Fellow front-rower Tim Perry joined in the fun, loading up the bar, as teammate Scott Barrett provided the spotting assist.
New Blues recruit Karl Tu'inukuafe wasn't going to be left out, strolling to the rack to smash out a casual trio of 180kgs.
Saturday will mark the first time the All Blacks have ever played a test in Nelson.
Franks has come head-to-head with the vaunted Pumas pack many a time in his 100 test match career and knows precisely what to expect.
"They take real pride in their setpiece," said Franks.
"I probably didn't give them the respect they deserved and I paid for it in 2012 and '13.
"They're a pack I'll never underestimate again. They love scrummaging and they're big strong guys."
A product of nearby Motueka, Franks is also expecting a fair contingent of whanau at Trafalgar Park.
"It's going to be awesome. I've got my Nana and a few family friends and cousins, uncle all coming to the game."
Follow all the action with us live from 7:30pm Saturday as the All Blacks take on Argentina
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