All Blacks train in local Cardiff park ahead of Wales test

  • New Zealand will face Wales in Saturday’s autumn international test in Cardiff 
  • The All Blacks trained ahead of the tie in Sophia Gardens, a local park in the city 
  • Members of the public watched on as Steve Hansen put on the session
  • The Kiwis have faced criticism of late after a run of uninspiring performances

New Zealand took a novel approach to their preparations for Saturday’s autumn international against Wales.

The All Blacks were spotted having a training session in Sophia Gardens, a local Cardiff park which is usually open to the public. 

It may not be what Steve Hansen’s side are use to but the coach seemingly wants to try something different after a run of poor performances.

Steve Hansen’s side are out through their paces in Sophia Gardens, a local park in Cardiff 

The All Blacks star-studded side were watched by a small group of school children 

The All Blacks star-studded side were watched by a small group of school children 

The star-studded All Blacks team looked somewhat out of place on the uneven surface but seemed to make the most of unfamiliar surroundings.

A school group were even given the privilege of watching on as Hansen put his side through their paces.

Sophia Gardens is located right in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre and as pictures show, it doesn’t usually cater for such elite athletes. 

Sonny Bill Williams warms up during training prior to Saturday's International against Wales

Sonny Bill Williams warms up during training prior to Saturday’s International against Wales

Kieran Read passes the ball as a group park-goers watch on from the sidelines 

Kieran Read passes the ball as a group park-goers watch on from the sidelines 

Beauden Barrett warms up as the New Zealand team look to hush their recent criticism 

Beauden Barrett warms up as the New Zealand team look to hush their recent criticism 

The test is likely to be a feisty affair with Wales boss Warren Gatland reigniting his spat with New Zealand media in the run-up to the game.

Gatland led the British and Irish Lions in their tour of New Zealand earlier in the year and is well aware of what Hansen’s side have to offer.

Before Saturday’s showdown, he insisted his experienced side were no longer scared of the All Blacks but did concede that he was wary of a fierce response.

New Zealand have struggled through this year’s autumn tests and come to Cardiff for their final match of the year off the back of an unconvincing 22-17 win over Scotland.  

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