The China Mail - 'Ferrari' Will Jordan returns to rev up All Blacks

Fleet-footed Jordan, 26, has touched down 31 times in as many Tests since his debut in 2020 and scored a hat-trick against the Pumas in a 44-6 victory in the World Cup semi-final last year.

Fullback Jordan went under the knife earlier this year and has not played for New Zealand since being on the losing side against South Africa in the World Cup final.

"Will's looking great in training," All Blacks fly-half Damian McKenzie told reporters Tuesday ahead of the Rugby Championship opener.

"He's like a Ferrari -- bring him out of the garage at the right time and he's ready to go.

"It's been a long time coming since the World Cup, so we're excited to have him back."

Alongside Jordan, former captain Sam Cane could play his first Test since the World Cup after a neck injury.

It is Cane's last season in the All Blacks jersey, having announced he will retire from international rugby after the 2024 campaign and take up a three-year contract at a Japan club.

"Sammy's had a massive career with New Zealand and will want to go out on a high note," McKenzie said.

"He's been great to have back in the squad. Just to have his experience and leadership, you can't put a price on that."

New Zealand have won each of their last three Tests against Argentina by more than 40 points.

But the All Blacks are wary of the South Americans after suffering a shock 25-18 defeat two years ago in Christchurch, Argentina's first win on New Zealand soil.

"Both teams are different since then, but it's obviously a rock under the pillow," McKenzie added.

"We know every time we come up against Argentina, they're going to throw everything at us."

Centre Jordie Barrett said the All Blacks needed to improve their discipline from that defeat, when Argentina's Emiliano Boffelli landed six penalties.

"It's important we start well with our discipline. They are always sharpshooters, so we have to be clean in that area and take the decisions out of the referee's hands," said Barrett.

New Zealand have not won any of their last four Tests in Wellington. They lost and drew against South Africa in 2018 and 2019, followed by a draw with Australia in 2020 and a defeat to Ireland in 2022.

"It'd be nice to put that to bed," said Barrett. "I think it's due to the quality of the opposition we have played in Wellington.

"It's no different to what we are facing this week against Argentina. They got us on the nose a few years ago, so it's important we start well."

L.Johnson--ThChM