The All Blacks are pinning their faith on 23-year-old rookie Tanerau Latimer to turn their fortunes around in tonight's second rugby Test against France in Wellington.
The French are on the verge of an historic series win after their 27-22 win over the home side last weekend in Dunedin.
France, with their superior physical approach, nullified the impact of the makeshift All Blacks loose trio, allowing their forwards to take control of the rucks and mauls and their command of the game grew from there.
Latimer, on the bench until he had his first taste of Test rugby for the final 20 minutes, now gets to start in the number seven jersey as the All Blacks look to cope without injuerd skipper Richie McCaw.
French captain Thierry Dusautoir says his side's bracing for a much more physical approach from the All Blacks.
French coach Marc Lievremont, who played in the 1994 French side which was the last international team to win a series in New Zealand, wasn't surprised by Latimer's promotion, as the All Blacks have realised they need a true openside flanker.
France have been forced to make a late change to their replacements' bench for the second test: Yannick Jauzion, who is suffering from a neck injury, has been replaced by Florian Fritz.
Metservice says the temperature for tonight's game evening will be about eight degrees, but strong southerlies will make it feel colder.
He says there could also be some showers during the game, and people should dress for wintry conditions.
