NZ Sports Minister Grant Robertson has taken a cheeky shot at the Wallabies, amid signs that a Bledisloe Cup series will take place in 2020.
Speaking on Sky Sports' The Breakdown, Robertson has confirmed a real desire from all parties to ensure the trans-Tasman rugby showpiece takes place.
Despite current travel restrictions, he notes the prospect of an Australasian coronavirus 'bubble' should clear the path for Bledisloe battles.
But the Labour MP couldn't resist taking a cheeky shot at the Aussies, who haven't lifted the trophy since 2003.
"It's one of the gags going around, isn't it?," Robertson quipped. That one of the best things about the coronavirus was that the Wallabies would have an unbeaten season."
Roberston revealed Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Australian counterpart Scott Morrison were targeting July for the trans-Tasman agreement, but he cautioned that a rise in positive coronavirus cases would push that timeline back.
The keen rugby and cricket fan is eagerly awaiting the return of international sport, when it's safe.
"Wouldn't it be great, in the second half of the year, if we were able to get a decent Bledisloe Cup competition going.
"I know the cricketers have been talking about getting themselves over there as well.
"That's what we're working towards."
New Zealand's Super Rugby Aotearoa competition kicks off on June 13.
