Nations Championship rugby: New Zealand edge France 34-32 in thrilling tournament opener as Will Jordan closes in on All Blacks try record

New Zealand defeated France 34-32 in the opening match of the Nations Championship in Christchurch, with Will Jordan scoring a brace and Cam Roigard adding two tries for the All Blacks. The win marked a winning start for new head coach Dave Rennie, and extended New Zealand's unbeaten home record against France since 2009. France put in a strong display despite the absence of key players Antoine Dupont and Louis Bielle-Biarrey.