Hansen calls for focus

“For different sides, like England, New Zealand and France, who expect to be in the final, their preparation will be a little bit easier, they can build into the tournament,” he said.

“For us, we have to take each game as it comes because we have got to win each game and we have got to work hard to win them.

”Our next game is Canada and that is the most important at the moment because if we blow that opportunity it will be very difficult to qualify. It is an old cliche but for us it is pertinent. Our mindset right off the plane has been preparing for this Test against Canada.”

Hansen will ensure his players waste no time on thoughts of the knockout phase but hit the ground running at the indoor Telstra Dome in Melbourne on October 12.

“We need to be gelling as a group and then name our team as early as possible and get cracking with the preparations for a Test match,” he said.

“The first game after a break is always the most difficult, that’s when you are at your most vulnerable. But Canada are in the same position so we need prepare in an honest and genuine fashion.”

After being in Australia for just 24 hours, the squad looked relaxed and happy as they played beach volleyball at Manly. The squad remain in Sydney until Friday when they travel to Canberra – and that is where the hard work begins.

“When we get to Canberra, the true preparations for a Test match will swing into place,” said Hansen.