Fiercely proud Maori All Blacks are a team apart, bound by blood | Robert Kitson

Saturday’s showdown against the Lions represents a career high-point for the gladiatorial Maori players and coachesTo some it generates a shiver down the spine, establishing a connection with the spiritual self easily overlooked these days. To others the word haka is enough to start an argument in an empty room. For those who do not know their iwi from their elbow, the traditional challenge to the British & Irish Lions has certainly mislaid the rarity value it once had. Related: Owen Farrell ruled out of Lions match against Maori with thigh injury Continue reading...