New Zealand's head coach Scott Robertson is under enormous pressure to get a win against Ireland in Chicago. Photograph: Michael Bradley/AFP via Getty Images
The All Blacks are in Chicago for what they have styled as the “Rematch” and the opportunity to avenge the loss they suffered to Ireland nine years ago in the same city.
But the marketing strapline is perhaps not indicative of the truth, and the real reason why the All Blacks are back at Soldier Field this week playing Ireland is the opportunity to enjoy one of the biggest single pay-days in New Zealand rugby history.
A team that once saw winning as the sole arbiter of success is these days equally focused on making money and they have come to Chicago to demonstrate the full might of their commercial standing.
In the nine years since the All Blacks were last in Chicago they have evolved into a sporting megabrand – with about €35 million a y
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