The All Blacks launched the new Nations Championship with a hard-fought 34-32 victory over France in Christchurch, overcoming an early setback to secure the opening win of the competition.
Winger Will Jordan scored twice to move into second place on the All Blacks’ all-time try-scoring list, while halfback Cam Roigard also crossed twice in an expansive attacking display.
France matched New Zealand throughout, with Maxime Lucu and Matthieu Jalibert directing a dangerous backline that kept the visitors within reach until the closing minutes. The All Blacks built a narrow lead through strong phase play and timely contributions from their bench before holding off a late French surge to begin the new tournament with a two-point victory.
