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Pig hunters, farmers and Law students by day but my All Blacks are untouchable

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Kiwi Dean Roulston explains why everyone is facing six weeks of torment at the hands of the All Blacks

It's been 20 long years for most everyone living in New Zealand, waiting for another taste of glory in Rugby Union's premier event. In New Zealand, if not all over the world, the Men in Black walk out favourites for every game and tournament in which they participate. The 2007 version of this festival of Rugby is no different, although perhaps there has been even more pressure heaped on the team given that over the last 4 years they've endured the most thorough build-up possible. Public expectation surrounding Graham Henry's squad has reached fever pitch. If the team don't bring home the Webb Ellis Trophy, all thirty players and the management team may as well join the already sizeable contingent relocating to the Northern Hemisphere after the tournament as, if unsuccessful, there will be 4 Million unforgiving Kiwis sitting in the South Pacific baying for blood.

What is it that once again makes the All Blacks such hot favourites?

In the last 4 years, worldwide powerhouses of the game have emerged in black jerseys. Widely regarded as the greatest two players currently in the game (maybe ever) Daniel 'DC' Carter and Richie 'Quickdraw' McCaw continue to wow the opposition with dazzling displays of rugby perfection. Aside from those two, Carl Hayman, an unassuming pig hunter from Central Otago, has risen to become the most feared scrummager in the game. Along with Helensville farmer, Tony Woodcock and stalwarts Anton Oliver and Keven Mealamu (take your pick!!) the All Blacks boast easily the most devastating front row going around. Back that up with the brute strength exhibited by part-time rubbish collector Jerry Collins and family man Rodney So'oialo, plus the athletic prowess of experienced second rowers Ali Williams and Chris Jack, the All Black pack really is a force to be reckoned with.

With Byron 'wazza' Kelleher providing snappy service, Carter has a ridiculous range of options outside him. Widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in the game, Luke McAlister will provide much impetus, while law student Conrad Smith will be the steadying influence in midfield charged with releasing the fury of the feared All Black back three. Mils Muliaina, Siti Sivivatu and Dougie Howlett are without a doubt three of the most lethal finishers on the planet, so much so that they are able to consign flyer Joe Rokocoko to the dirt-trackers. What a luxury!

The scary thing is, this is only the starting XV for the first game against Italy, we haven't even touched on the massive depth seen riding the pine for this game, all of which would easily walk straight into the starting XV of most other teams in the competition.

This weekend they face an Italian side making huge strides in the international game. The history between the sides doesn't bode well for the Italians having suffered defeats by 60 odd points in 1987 and a cricket score in 1999. Most recently, in Rome in 2004, the match resembled the massacre of Christians at the Colloseum. 2007 however, has been a groundbreaking year for the Azzurri. Having finally won a game away from home in the Six Nations against the Scots back in February, they then ran one of the tournament favourites Ireland close (and should have won) only three weeks ago.

Despite this, the All Blacks will still run onto the Stade Veledrome in Marseille as unbackable favourites, and rightly so. The All Blacks have shown their intent by naming possibly their strongest 22, so wont be taking it easy at all. These guys have been fizzing at the bung for the World Cup and will be itching to get into their work. The pasta eaters will be looking to put a marker down and gain some confidence for their crucial match against the Scots later in the pool, but this along with an experienced and physical forward pack won't be anywhere near enough to stop the black juggernaut making macaroni out of them. With this in mind backing New Zealand in the 33.5 point handicap market at 1.59 should be a pretty safe bet.

Players to watch:

For Italy, look for Parisse making yards off the back of the scrum, the Bergamasco brothers tackling all over the show, and the nuggety Alessandro Troncon marshalling his troops from the base of the scrum. Also keep an ear out for the suspiciously Kiwi sounding Kaine Robertson searing up the touchline and watch out for Paul Griffen's spectacular side burns.

For the All Blacks, aside from gawking in amazement as they clinically tear Italy apart, you'll want to be watching when big Sione Lauaki comes off the bench. Lauaki has been selected for his ability to 'destroy people' as Graham Henry so eloquently put it. Otherwise, just sit back and admire as the men in black coast to a comfortable victory.