The All Blacks did their homework and executed their game plan almost perfectly last night.

Images from the All Blacks second test against France at AMI Stadium, June 15 2013.

The All Blacks realise now that France's real weapon of choice is not their scrum, but their midfield.

All Black coach Steve Hansen didn't re-use his infamous "flush the dunny and move on" line last night but he must have been tempted.

So far Aaron Cruden has relied on injury to win his starting All Black jersey ahead of Daniel Carter.

Test match victories are like children - they have to be loved unconditionally. Last night's victory wasn't a thing of beauty. It wasn't a game to revel in. But it was a victory.

If I was the All Black coaching staff, I'd be pretty pleased with the 23-13 win and I'd be looking to start the same 15 next test.

The All Blacks insist there is zero chance they are underestimating France in the first test in Auckland tonight.

Read will lead out the All Blacks tonight for the first time at home while regular skipper Richie McCaw continues his comeback to full fitness after his sabbatical.

If the French are handing out awards for sporting diplomacy, Louis Picamoles would be a prime contender.

France are not hugely experienced but will fancy their front row clash against the All Blacks.

A rugby priority for backrower Bernard le Roux was learning to count to 20, so he could understand lineout calls.

French rugby have apparently decided that, if they can't beat the clubs, they'll join them.

Nicknamed Piglet for his skittery running style, Philippe Saint-André is best known here as captain of the only French team to win a test series on New Zealand soil.

The British media have ridiculed the decision of the IRB to fine the French rugby team $5000 for advancing on the All Blacks haka before Sunday's Rugby World Cup final.