The chaos outside the All Blacks' team hotel in Wellington yesterday was fitting as coach Graham Henry reflected on a week of rugby gridlock and uncertainty.

Injuries, off-field misbehaviour, rain and new laws hardly allow for smooth preparation when the world champions lie in wait, but Henry hoped it will be behind them when the Tri Nations gets underway against South Africa tonight.

As the nationwide truck drivers' protest rumbled outside, Henry could at least announce that key lock Ali Williams is likely to play at Westpac Stadium after being in doubt all week due to a sprained ankle.

South Africa are on a 13-Test winning streak and the All Blacks have won a world-record 29 straight at home.

NZPA