MX23RW : Friday, November 29 04:32:57| >> :600:631031:631031:

Kieran Read prepared for "big battle"

Kieran Read warns his New Zealand teammates that this weekend's final against France will be a "big battle".

New Zealand number eight Kieran Read believes that his side will face a "big battle" during Sunday's World Cup final against France.

The Kiwis have already defeated the French in the competition and are favourites with the bookmakers to end their 24-year wait to win the tournament.

However, Read has warned his teammates that it may not be a straightforward outcome.

"It is going to be a big battle for us," said the 25-year-old. "I think the French back row has been outstanding. They have been defensively very strong, and they've also got a lot of options in their lineout with Bonnaire and Harinordoquy.

"So it's definitely a big challenge for us that as a group we are pretty excited about coming up against.

"I don't think we can really compare too much with a final of this magnitude, to be honest. I think it's exciting and you cannot just really rely on it being another week."

The French have named an unchanged lineup for the final.

ID:6026: cacheID:6026:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:restore:1967:
Restore Data
Share this article now:
Read more about Kieran Read Rugby Union
rhs 2.0
Today's games header
1.20am
Dolphins
@
Packers


Sports Mole provides in-depth previews and predictions for every match from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football.
Argentina's Lionel Messi kisses the World Cup trophy after collecting the Golden Ball award on December 18, 2022Sign up for our FREE daily preview newsletter direct to your inbox!