Auckland (AFP)
The World Rugby Cup in Japan (September 20 - November 2) is more important than the number one place in the world, said Steve Hansen, the coach of the All Blacks, dethroned from their leadership in the world ranking by the country of Wales.
The Welsh, victorious Saturday against England (13-6) will take the lead on Monday World Rugby World Ranking, despite the overwhelming victory of New Zealand against Australia (36-0).
Held in check at home by South Africa (16-16) and swept by the Wallabies (47-26) earlier in the summer, the All Blacks, two-time world champions, will have to yield first place they had occupied since 16 November 2016.
"I never understood their system (ranking) You win a game and you still lose the first place," Hansen commented Sunday.
But for the technician, the priority is not there. For now, "we just have to put ourselves in the right frame of mind to go to the World Cup and win it," he added.
Hansen said the shoulder injury, which forced Richie Mo'unga to leave the field on Saturday, did not matter.
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