The good news for rank outsiders Namibia is they will be playing against a 'shadow' team when they begin their latest Rugby World Cup adventure today – the bad news it is New Zealand's.

Not even the sight of Japan beating South Africa on Saturday in the sport’s biggest ever shock will fuel the Namibians’ hopes of something even more extraordinary against the holders in what should be a lop-sided Pool C clash at London’s Olympic Stadium.

But, spared having to play against Steve Hansen’s preferred starting XV, and bolstered by their most rigorous build-up to a tournament, they can reasonably expect to avoid a repeat of the record 142-0 loss to Australia in 2003.

Impressed coach

The lowest-ranked side in the tournament, boasting a dentist, some farmers and a diamond trader in their squad, they have impressed coach and former Wales international Phil Davies who hopes his players can enjoy the moment.

“It is vital that we get them to express themselves and relish the opportunity to play against the world champions,” he said.

“I am under no illusions but it is going to be a fantastic opportunity to see the Namibian flag flying alongside that of New Zealand.”

Attack coach Pieter Rossouw said Namibia are a lot more organised than back in 2003. “We’re pretty proud of our defence structures, which just need to be very good at international level,” he said.

While Namibia’s biggest name is Saracens forward Jacques Burger, the All Blacks have an embarrassment of riches – as was seen in the hard-fought 26-16 defeat of main group rivals Argentina when Hansen called several players off the bench to finally overwhelm the Pumas.

Sonny Bill Williams, Beauden Barrett, Sam Kane and Charlie Faumuina were all introduced to great effect and Hansen will likely make sure his entire squad has tasted action by the end today.

The All Blacks will almost certainly better the 54 points Wales managed against Uruguay in Pool A with only the Georgians and Tonga to come in the group phase after that,