Defensive Scrums: Nothing tests the collective mettle of a Forward pack like a defensive scrum near their own goal-line - with the opposition feeding the scrum. The attacking team, within short distance of scoring, have two options - to try and push the defensive Forward pack back into their in-goal and force the ball down for a try, or to launch an attack through their backline. Teams rehearse these scoring moves repeatedly at training, and the attacking team will always be disappointed if unable to come away with points. Conversely, from a defensive perspective, being able to repel the opposition's attack with a dominant scrum, will often result in winning possession back and is a big morale-booster.
Offside penalty: When a side is awarded a penalty, depending on field position, they may opt to take a scrum, particularly if close to the opposition's goal-line and if the Captain feels his forwards have the ascendancy. Other options are to kick for points, kick the ball out with the ensuing throw into a lineout, or to take a quick tap and run.
Kick-Off: Play restarts after each scoring play with a drop-kick from half-way, by the non-scoring team. the team's designated kicker will take a drop-kick from half-way, which his team will chase to try and win possession. The kick must go 10 metres, or the opposition will be awarded a scrum on half-way.
Bledisloe Cup Stats: The All Blacks incredible run of success against the Australians dates back to 2003, when the Wallabies last held the Bledisloe Cup. During this dominant period, the two sides have met 42 times in Bledisloe Cup matches, with the All Blacks winning 32 times, the Australians just 8 times, with 2 draws.
Bledisloe Cup Capacity: The Bledisloe Cup allegedly holds 40 cans or bottles of beer and has become a tradition for the winning team to drink out of.