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QUICK TAP: ALL BLACKS CHASE IMPROVMENT IN AUCKLAND

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Props have their own register of performance and it probably has more to do with muscular output, technical accuracy and sheer application. But it also includes durability and Franks has demonstrated plenty of that.

All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith has been able to observe Franks at close hand and acknowledged his role in the side.

“I think how amazing he is, is what he does off the field to prepare himself for a game, it’s pretty amazing. I know that in the last few years I’ve really taken note of his preparation, the little things he does, his diet, stretching, getting ready to train, focus.

“You can learn a lot from a guy like that, someone who doesn’t say much either. He says a lot more with his actions and it’s just true testament to his…the same with Sam [Whitelock] last week…their durability in the last seven or eight years or nine years is pretty amazing but it’s down to all the work they do off the field.