'It's about a team versus a team' – Steve Hansen plays down Warren Gatland rivalry

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has played down his rivalry with Wales coach Warren Gatland ahead of the two sides facing each other in Cardiff next week.

The two Kiwi coaches have shared a rivalry during their tenures in charge of their sides, most recently with Gatland in charge of the British and Irish Lions earlier this year.

Hansen says that next week's clash won't be about the coaches - rather the players on the field.

"You media guys get all excited about that," Hansen said.

"But it's not about anyone pitting swords against anyone else."

"It's about a team versus a team, so are we looking forward to going to Wales and playing Wales? Yeah, we are."