All Blacks: Thermals out for captain's run

Patrick Tuipulotu is hugged by Aaron Smith and Liam Messam in attempt to keep warm in the freezing conditions. Photo / Getty Images

The All Blacks were suddenly forced into thermals and beanies at today's captain's run in Chicago after the temperature plummeted and brought snow flurries with it.

Winter has arrived in Illinois - a little earlier than predicted and with more sting than usual. The forecast for the test is not overly encouraging: Chicago will live up to its reputation as the windy city and the temperature isn't likely to get much above five degrees.

On the plus side, the snow is likely to hold off and for that the All Blacks will be thankful.

The rain has followed them this year - or at least it did in the early part of the season and they are reasonably keen to have a dry ball. Cold is fine.. Cold and wet - makes it that bit harder for them to play the game they want.

"I guess coming to Chicago that's what we expected," said All Black captain Kieran Read.

"We have got what we have got. I guess we have to turn up tomorrow and see what weather unfolds. Being out there today you saw how the wind did have an effect. More the wind than the snow to be honest.

"If it does gust up, we will probably have to change our plans slightly. Go to the front of the lineout and be a bit more sympathetic with the passes."

The weather isn't likely to cause the All Blacks too many problems, however, as they give impression they are focused and ready to start their tour with a quality performance.

Much has been made of how much traction the All Blacks have in the US, but Read said the team have loved being in Chicago. Being in an unfamiliar city, in a country the All Blacks haven't visited for more than 30 years had been hugely refreshing.

"It has been a great week," said Read. "The people have been fantastic. It has certainly boosted our preparation. We know why we are here - to put on a great show tomorrow. That is our job and we will do that.

"There is a big chunk of leadership and experience out of the group. But it is a great opportunity for us as a unit to stamp a good mark on the tour. A lot of the guys playing have been around for a while and it is an opportunity for them to go out and show what they can do. We want to play well and that is our mentality this week."