The All Blacks delivered a brutal statement of intent in Durban, destroying the Sharks 54-0 at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in a one-sided tour clash.

New Zealand ran in eight tries without conceding a single point, underlining the frightening attacking depth and defensive intensity they will take into their next challenge.

The All Blacks led 14-0 at half-time before turning the contest into a rout after the break. Fehi Fineanganofo crossed twice, while Damian McKenzie, Caleb Clarke, Jordie Barrett, Kyle Preston, Timoci Tavatavanawai and Sam Darry also got on the scoresheet. Ruben Love added seven conversions.

Now attention turns to Pretoria, where New Zealand faces a much tougher test against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, August 15.

The Bulls will pose a major step up in physicality and intensity, and the All Blacks will be braced for a fierce battle at altitude in Pretoria. New Zealand will also assess Damian McKenzie after he sustained an ankle injury against the Sharks, while Richie Mo’unga has been called into the squad.

After their 54-point demolition, expectations are soaring — but the Bulls are expected to ask quite different questions.