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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Dylan James

Australia challenge All Blacks' Haka with boomerang-shaped charge in feisty start to Bledisloe Cup

Australia formed a boomerang-shaped challenge to the Haka in their Bledisloe Cup encounter with the All Blacks in the Rugby Championship on Thursday.

Aaron Smith spearheaded the Maori war dance in Marvel Stadium as the Kiwi squad got their tradition under way.

However, Wallaby skipper James Slipper led the march forward from Australia's starting position, laying out a challenge to the infamous Haka.

READ MORE: Wales legend Scott Quinnell's emotion-charged dressing room speech leaves viewers floored

They formed a V-shape or 'boomerang' as they performed it directly behind the photographers. There were just a few yards between the two sides.

It is reminiscent of England's iconic Haka challenge at the 2019 World Cup.

The atmosphere inside Marvel Stadium was electric (Sky Sports)

This challenge was met with a rousing atmosphere boost from the crowd as noise began to pick up around the ground.

The commentators were taken aback by the riposte.

"Oh! The Wallabies advance on to the Haka and this is going to be good!" said Sean Maloney.

"Did you see the eyes of James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa?! Leading the side forward with a boomerang." he added.

James Slipper spearheads the march (Sky Sports)

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