Taylor, a veteran of the 29-40 2016 loss - the All Blacks' first against Ireland - said that while the outcome had been disappointing, the week in Chicago had been outstanding, especially sharing in the Cubs' World Series win and all the celebrations that went with it.

"We probably turned up, got caught up in the lights of the city and went down to an Irish team that was determined to beat us for the first time," Taylor told allblacks.com.

"We reflected on that and this week we've had the opportunity to get out and see some things in Chicago and now Test week has rolled around and there is a sense of intensity with the preparation, even for a Monday."

While Ireland didn't have a July Test series, they did have 16 players in the British and Irish Lions, and they had been a formidable unit in recent years.

"They're a world-class outfit, and they're a team that backs themselves," he continued.

"They set the standard for how to play a good brand of rugby, the way they structure their attack and defence. They set a new standard there for a wee while, and they're still doing that.

"We've got the utmost respect for the way they can play. We've won the last couple, but every Test match is tough against them.

"To see that it's five [wins] apiece over the last many years shows the rivalry's there, and they're a good side."

Meanwhile, lock Sam Darry said while it was special to be called back into the side after suffering a shoulder injury at the start of the year, it was also a weird feeling because it was at the expense of his Blues teammate Patrick Tuipulotu.

"Paddy has been someone I've looked up to and who has been a mentor for me in the Blues," said the 25-year-old.

"I was gutted for him, he's had a tough run with injuries, but I am excited. It is an awesome opportunity to come in and be part of a group and to try and grow as a player and keep getting better."

Darry said part of his tour was learning from older players on the team.

"We're very fortunate as younger players having a lot of senior guys who are very approachable," he said.

"One hundred Test guys who have been there and done it, whether it's in Chicago, Scotland, Twickenham, Cardiff, wherever.

"We're fortunate that any questions we have of what to expect around atmosphere, environment, all those little things, they're all very approachable and are great for us in those areas to help us prepare as best as possible."

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