Deans: 'Clearly it's time'

The Wallabies will host New Zealand on Saturday to kick off the tournament - which has welcomed Argentina in addition to South Africa this year - with the first of three trans-Tasman clashes.

The All Blacks have dominated the rivalry of late, winning the past nine Bledisloe Cups, but New Zealander Deans is determined to end that run.

"Clearly it's time. It's pretty straight forward really. It's far too long," Deans said.

"But we're getting it done, the boys have worked hard, we understand that the All Blacks won't let go lightly. That's the nature of the way they push their work.

"This group I can assure you is really looking forward to kick-off."

Deans has also had to endure the barbs of new All Blacks coach Steve Hansen in the build-up to the match at ANZ Stadium.

Hansen, who fell out with Deans following their time together at Super 15 franchise the Crusaders, cheekily claimed Australia's crowds were far from hostile - because they were full of Kiwis.

The 53-year-old also hinted the Wallabies relied on players born across the ditch, although recently returned fly-half Quade Cooper has been left out of the home squad.

"I don't know if it will be that hostile," Hansen said.

"There's a lot of Kiwis living over here now - and Robbie's picking half of them already. There are plenty of Kiwis in Sydney so we like coming here - it's a good place."

Deans would not be drawn into a war of words today, however, replying: "Steve is a very good fisherman. He loves fishing."

New Zealand beat Australia 20-6 in the World Cup semi-final last year when they were without injured playmaker Dan Carter.

The 30-year-old is back in the fold for tomorrow's match and, with Ma'a Nonu and Sonny Bill Williams immediately outside him for the first time, he is relishing the prospect of unleashing a fearsome attacking threat on the hosts.

"It was pretty frustrating what happened last year and obviously I'm pretty keen to make the most of this opportunity," Carter said.

"And to be over here in Sydney and playing against a strong Wallabies side is a great challenge.

"It's not bad looking outside and seeing the likes of Sonny Bill and Ma'a, a couple of absolutely huge human beings. Hopefully we'll get some front football and be able to use them going forward."