McCaw warns All Blacks over Pocock threat

Australia flanker David Pocock has made a name for himself as a formidable foe at the breakdown.

But Richie McCaw, his opposite number in Sunday night’s semi-final at Eden Park, insisted New Zealand would be foolish to focus on him alone.

There is no denying Pocock’s influence, especially after his dominant performance in the Wallabies' 11-9 quarter-final victory over South Africa.

McCaw, though, warned that there are 14 other players in Australia's gold and green jerseys to beware of.

"Pocock had quite an impact - he certainly did last weekend,” said All Blacks captain McCaw. "But it's not just about one person, it's the whole team. We've got to make sure we don't give a guy like him an opportunity.

"He's one man. If you put your focus on just one man, then you miss others, so you've got to make sure it's not over the top."

Pushing boundaries

Pocock’s tactics at the breakdown have come under fire with allegations that he operates around the edges of the laws. However, McCaw reckons the Australia flanker is simply doing his job by pushing the boundaries.

"Sevens are always going to do that,” he said. “I've been in exactly that situation myself when people question that.

"But you get away with what you can and you push it to wherever you can and he's pretty good at it. He's had influence and we've got to make sure we limit that."

Pocock has no fears about going face-to-face with New Zealand's 101-cap skipper and insists he has all the motivation he needs to help Australia clinch a place in the final.

"There are a number of good sevens in the tournament and it is a big challenge," Pocock said. "Whoever wins goes a long way to deciding who is better at No. 7 on the night.

"All the inspiration you need is to win and you are in the World Cup final. You grow up playing rugby dreaming about playing in a World Cup final.

"You do not need other inspiration and if you do you should not be here.''