'Bloody sorry:' Disconsolate All Blacks captain Sam Cane apologises to fans for series loss
All Blacks captain Sam Cane has offered fans an apology after his side suffered a shock first series loss to Ireland on home soil.
Although the men in black won the opening clash in Auckland, the visiting side then went back-to-back in Dunedin and Wellington.
The final encounter saw the All Blacks go down 32-22 on Saturday night in an abysmal end to the three-Test tour.
Watch every match of The Rugby Championship ad-free, live and exclusive on Stan Sport
All Blacks captain Sam Cane during a press conference following his team's series loss to Ireland Getty
Cane, who was subbed off late at Sky Stadium and replaced by Ardie Savea as captain, expressed his disappointment post-match.
"We've certainly felt the support," he said.
"It's been incredible to play at home after the last couple of years. We've felt the support, but I tell you we're bloody sorry we couldn't put the performances out there that you guys deserved.
READ MORE: Gallen's Origin meltdown leaves in panel in stitches
READ MORE: 'Fraudulent' Saints ripped after dismal loss
READ MORE: Teary Tiger's emotional send off after missing cut
"We're extremely disappointed, gutted in fact. We didn't put out the performance that we so desperately wanted to in front of some pretty awesome fans.
"But we can't take anything away from Ireland, they've been outstanding these last couple of weeks. They were too good for us tonight and we've got some work to do.
"Massive respect to Ireland. They've come out here with a massive tour, taken on our three tests plus the Maori. They've been class. They deserve their win tonight."
A dejected Sam Cane at Sky Stadium. Getty
The All Blacks will have a little under a month to lick their wounds before the Rugby Championship begins.
New Zealand will face South Africa, Argentina, and Australia each twice across August and September.
'I got the yips that night': Rugby legends trade hilarious yarns on Stan Sport's Glory Days series
