Cup legend: No 'easy ride' for All Blacks

Kiwi fans could be in for an 'uncomfortable' ride. Photo / Getty Images

Scottish rugby legend Gavin Hastings has warned New Zealanders they are in for an "uncomfortable ride" this Rugby World Cup.

Hastings, speaking to Radio Sport, warned that winning the Webb Ellis trophy is anything but assured for the tournament favourites.

"I sense that still there are a few slightly blinkered kiwis that think the next few weeks are going to be a stroll. Just a word of warning - nothing is taken for granted in sport.

"I'm sure the more balanced kiwi supporters will know that. It's not going to be an easy ride."

Hastings also had a word of advice for the All Blacks coaches regarding team selection. He said tinkering with the starting lineup could potentially be "quite damaging".

"World Cups are different. They're not the Tri-Nations or the traditional rugby tours. World Cups are about winning and about putting your best side on the field."

He implored Graham Henry and the coaching staff to stop the chopping and changing and stick with a consistent team after their clash against John Kirwan's Japan side.

"They're also very sensible men, so I would have thought after the Japan game on Friday night you're going to see a more balanced side over the next few weeks."