New Zealand

World Ranking: 1.

COACH: John Hart. Former Auckland and Taranaki scrum-half from 1967 to '76, he then transformed Auckland as coach, winning 78 of 90 matches between '82 and '86. Persistently rejected as All Blacks' coach, save for stint as assistant in '91 World Cup, marked time with New Zealand Colts' sides, and television commentating and broadcasting, before taking over in '96. Groomed the best side in the world in '96 and '97, and after record losing run of five last year, has regrouped this year.

TACTICAL TURN: Have assuredly kept a packload of tricks up their sleeve, i.e. line-out variations and back-row moves. They're also likely to unload Christian Cullen at outside centre (switching crash centre Alama Ieremia inside), thereby accommodating Jonah Lomu's return on the wing alongside Tana Umaga and Jeff Wilson in a potent outside three. Possible inexperience in front-row and lack of height in backrow, along with Justin Marshall's slower pass post-injury constitute minor potential hitches.

STAR TURN: Christian Cullen. His possible move to outside centre will add creative spark to a hitherto problem position, and while it may reduce his try-scoring ratio (30 in 35 Tests), then again it may not. Ridiculous strength and speed for such a small man, prompting George Gregan to describe the Wellington Hurricane as "a freak".

VERDICT: Much depends on pivotal game against England on October 9th. By topping the group, the All Blacks would probably avoid the other southern hemisphere sides until the final, instead pitting them against Scotland and either France or Ireland. As runners-up, they'd be more likely to face South Africa and Australia before the final. Justifiable favourites.

FINAL THOUGHTS: "These days the inter- national rugby yardstick is the World Cup. Your supporters will forgive you for dropping a few matches in the intervening years, so long as you win the World Cup. That's been our focus for four years."

- John Hart (New Zealand coach).