Video has emerged on social media of an intense encounter between All Blacks players and Sky Sport commentator Justin Marshall, after New Zealand's historic series loss to Ireland at Wellington over the weekend.
The 32-22 victory over the home team catapulted the Irish to No.1 in world rankings and left the host nation - now ranked fourth - licking its wounds, as it contemplated its chances of regaining the Rugby World Cup in France next year.
Tensions were high.
"Shortly after the video was taken, our management were informed by team security, who were always with the players," said an NZ Rugby statement. "Our security was managing the group in a separate area at the venue.
"We have contacted venue staff and spoken at length with players and security staff, who recall words being exchanged with another individual, as they were leaving. Our security proceeded to escort our players to their transport.
"Behaving responsibly is one of the core values in our team environment. The group were working to meet their curfew and when faced with a tricky situation, they did what they could to ensure everyone departed safely at the appropriate time."
One All Black to emerge from the encounter with reputation enhanced was Blues winger Caleb Clarke, who could be seen trying to ease the tension.
"One thing we can surely all agree on, Caleb Clarke would be an awesome bouncer," said one Reddit poster. "Friendly as anything, but if you break the rules, you're definitely going out."
Said another: "Caleb Clarke is probably the most likeable All Black."
Sky TV confirmed it was aware of the incident, but had no further comment.
