All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has set the scene for this weekend's blockbuster showdown against Ireland with a bold pre-match prediction.
Hansen's called Ireland's bluff over the availability of one of their stars - halfback Conor Murray - and made it clear the title of the undisputed best team on the planet will be up for grabs when they meet in Dublin.
Ireland coach Joe Schmidt says Murray's "highly unlikely" to face the All Blacks, but Steve Hansen is adamant he will.
"I'm not saying that to cause any trouble," said Hansen. "I think he's a real competitor and will want to play."
Judging by the large turnout at Hansen's arrival media conference, there's plenty of buzz about this game in the Ireland capital - rightfully so, with what Hansen says is on the line.
"It's one and two, so whoever wins will be the best side in the world."
Recent history between the teams makes the occasion even bigger, after Ireland's maiden victory over the All Blacks in Chicago in 2016.
"Have we been scarred?" Hansen mused. "I don't think so."
The All Blacks avenged the defeat with a brutal victory in Dublin two weeks later, making for a blockbuster rematch on Sunday.
The NZ team know this weekend's winners will firm as favourites for next year's World Cup.
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