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Piri Weepu stays relaxed ahead of World Cup final

Weepu stays relaxed ahead of World Cup final
New Zealand's Piri Weepu tries to stay relaxed as the All Blacks bid to win the World Cup for the first time since 1987.

Piri Weepu has revealed that he is trying to stay relaxed ahead of New Zealand's World Cup final clash with France.

The All Blacks scrum-half has stepped into the starting lineup during the tournament after injuries ruled out Dan Carter and Colin Slade.

The 28-year-old was named man of the match in New Zealand's 33-10 win over Argentina in the quarter-finals and is now gearing up for his first appearance in a World Cup final.

"You try to get your preparation right through the week, so when you come to match day you can go out there with a clear head and just play your game," said Weepu.

"I think with occasions like this one, the more relaxed you stay, the less pressure you put on yourselves.

"I am pretty sure the boys get excited by moments like this. As a little kid in the backyard you dream of playing for your country and scoring the winning try or taking the winning kick. Moments like these are moments you don't want to forget."

Weepu wasn't selected by New Zealand for the 2007 World Cup, when Canterbury half-back Andrew Ellis was preferred.

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Richie McCaw
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