Croke Park, the scene of this morning's test against Ireland, is not just another rugby ground.
The test squad gained an appreciation of the unique occasion when venturing on to the Gaelic Athletic Association's (GAA) turf for a captain's run. The test is likely to be the All
Blacks' only invitation to this Irish citadel, a cauldron normally reserved for Gaelic football, hurling and camogie.
The GAA, despite reservations from some hard-line republicans, allowed the Irish Rugby Union to use this 82,000 seat stadium until Lansdowne Road is rebuilt. It was a grand gesture considering the GAA was established in 1884 to promote Irish sport, culture and language while emphasising separation from all things British, rugby included.
The stadium, in Dublin's working class northern suburbs, is inextricably linked to Ireland's War of Independence. Rubble left after a British artillery bombardment of Dublin's main thoroughfare - today's O'Connell St - in 1916 was used when the ground was built.
A section retains the name Hill 16 and bits of the original terraces are embedded in its foundations.
All Blacks head coach Graham Henry walked on the Hill, gaining some perspective on the passion his side would face.
"There's always edge in a rugby test match, but I think there's more edge in this one because of the significance of the game," he said. "We're playing in a venue that is very historic.
"You need to think about the history ... it's a privilege for the All Blacks to play there."
The Hogan Stand is another link with Ireland's past. On November 21, 1920, as Dublin were playing Tipperary, British soldiers opened fire in retaliation for an attack that day - 13 spectators and Tipperary captain Michael Hogan were killed.
Those events made the GAA's decision even more contentious, given England were scheduled to visit in February 2007. It was an emotionally charged occasion as God Save The Queen was played by the Irish Army Band - a previously unthinkable scenario. Ireland's fervent support helped inspire them to a cathartic 43-13 victory.
- NZPA
