All Blacks: Vigilant watch for spies and poisoners

Security is super tight as top four squads count down to Cup semifinals. Photo / Getty Images

The four teams left in the Rugby World Cup are not taking any chances before this weekend's semifinals. Security is tight, training runs are being done in secret and extra precautions have been taken to prevent food poisoning.

An All Black team practice yesterday at the Trusts Stadium in Henderson was shrouded behind black barriers and unveiled to about 60 waiting photographers and reporters for only the final 15 minutes.

Anyone who approached the barriers received a stern warning from hired security guards: "You're not allowed near there."

The waiting crowd appeared to be accredited media and young supporters hoping to get autographs from their heroes, rather than spies from other teams trying to steal tactics.

On the road side of the pitch, the training could be seen through gaps in a low hedge - and the dreary Wednesday drizzle.

The tournament-wide measures of blocking practices from public view have been put in place alongside heightened security and the collecting of samples of food served to players.

The Food Safety Authority has said it provides "full traceability" of team hotel meals during the whole tournament, while tournament organisers have said all meals served to players are recorded.

"We know who eats what, where and when," said hospitality and logistics manager Ian Crowe.

The meticulous checks parallel the rise of a forensic scrutiny of opposing teams' tactics by coaches and players.

All Black Jerome Kaino yesterday said the team had conducted "theory work and computer work" to dissect what lines Wallaby halfback Will Genia liked to run.

"I haven't been in touch with the outside world very much," Kaino said.

Teammate Sonny Bill Williams, who said he was making sure not to read anything being reported in media, noted that the 1987 World Cup-winning team had been much "naughtier" than the current squad.

The team, staying at the Heritage Hotel, have been to varying degrees insulated from external distractions - Cory Jane and Israel Dagg being the exceptions after a drinking session before their quarter-final match against Argentina on Sunday.

In 1995, 27 of the 35-man All Black squad fell sick 48 hours before the World Cup final.

Ex-All Black Eric Rush said he had escaped because he missed a team dinner, eating a takeaway pizza instead.

Where the teams are

All Blacks
* Training: Trusts Stadium, Henderson
* Hotel: Heritage Hotel

Australia
* Training: North Harbour Stadium
* Hotel: Spencer on Byron

France
* Training: Onewa Domain, Northcote
* Hotel: Crowne Plaza

Wales
* Training: Mt Smart Stadium
* Hotel: SkyCity Hotel