New Zealand rugby
Hansen expects new scrum rules will create space
August 15, 2013
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is all smiles following his re-appointment, New Zealand Rugby House, Wellington, April 10, 2013
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is an ardent supporter of the new scrum laws © Getty Images
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The All Blacks are convinced rugby's new scrum engagement laws will have the flow-on effect of prising open backline defences.

While much focus leading into Saturday's first Bledisloe Cup Test in Sydney has been on how the new law will affect the front-row battle, New Zealand's coaches have been gauging its impact elsewhere. The law - designed to reduce collapses by removing the collision element - will see both sets of props bind with their outside arms during a "crouch, bind, set" referee call.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen backs the change, which makes its international debut on Saturday. He expects teething problems but, ultimately a better scrum contest once both teams adapt. Their analysis tells them that loose forwards will need to stay bound and push for longer, rather than breaking quickly onto defence. The result will be bigger holes to exploit in defensive lines.

"You're going to get rewarded for scrummaging well. We're excited by the prospect of what it's going to bring," Hansen said.

Putting his technical hat on, Hansen expects the defensive team to have an advantage at most scrums because the attacking hooker will need to focus on hooking the ball, removing his power from the shove.

Follow live text commentary of the Bledisloe Cup Test between Australia and New Zealand on Saturday, August 17, from 730pm (AEST), 930pm (NZT), 930am (GMT)

David Flatman's views on the new scrums
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"The other side are going to have everyone's feet down and pushing. I think the statements will be made by the team not putting the ball in."

Loose-head prop Tony Woodcock, who will start his 99th Test, says it is too soon to judge the law's impact but Saturday's scrum contest will be won by the team which adapts most quickly.

© AAP

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