Marred by newspaper columns and controversy, Graham Henry's 2001 vintage still served up a fabulous Test series against the Wallabies.
The rarity of these tours means this crop of Australia players, this crop of Wallabies, must work harder than they’ve ever worked before to ensure Wallaby coach, Joe Schmidt, has no other choice but to pick them.
Should Joe Schmidt step aside after the Lions tour, is there a home-grown coach ready to take on the full weight of responsibility?
Australia will take plenty of confidence from beating England, but now have to contend with expectation and possible complacency.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has named former Sydney Roosters flyer Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in a 34-man squad for the team's upcoming Spring Tour.
The Wallabies finished The Rugby Championship in last place after winning just one of their six Tests.
The Wallabies came out of the blocks fast to score the opening try through Fraser McReight after seven minutes of power rugby. A tight first half ensued before a try to Caleb Clarke on half-time gave the All Blacks a 19-13 cushion into the break.
Joe Schmidt's men were painfully close, but again came up empty-handed against their old rivals.
The All Blacks are welcoming back two players from injury ahead of the Bledisloe Cup Test in Sydney on Saturday - but a third remains out of action.
Queensland Reds duo Fraser McReight and Hunter Paisami are back in the mix for the Wallabies.