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Cape Town - Former All Black scrumhalf Justin Marshall says New Zealand's B-team would be good enough to beat the top four nations in the world.
Marshall made the statement in his column for the New Zealand Herald on Monday.
Referring to New Zealand's 57-22 win over Argentina, Marshall said the home side didn't lose their rhythm when coach Steve Hansen sent TJ Perenara and Charlie Faumuina on the 49th minute of the Test.
"Those subs were made earlier than usual," Marshall said.
"You must be brave to replace Aaron Smith, someone British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland recently described as New Zealand's best and most influential player. It just shows how much trust and belief the coaches have in their players. Those decisions changed the game."
Marshall was also full of praise for impact the All Blacks' bench made.
"Everyone talks about the impact of the bench. I think it was a combination between the bench and the players in the starting XV like Ryan Crotty, Brodie Retallick, Ben Smith, Julian Savea, Israel Dagg and Same Cane, who were all outstanding. Jerome Kaino was also excellent.
"It just underlines the depth in the team. New Zealand's B-team would probably be able to beat the top four teams in the world."
This weekend, the world champions host the Springboks in Christchurch. The Boks slipped to No 4 on world rugby's official rankings following their 23-17 loss to Australia in Brisbane at the weekend.
