Good Read Condition Against the Odds traces the evolution of the New Zealand Maori team during the professional rugby era, as seen through the eyes of the players and coach Matt Te Pou – one of the most influential Maori figures in the game.

The book highlights the development of the players’ personal, cultural and rugby skills from 1995–2001 and how Te Pou’s upbringing and military service in Vietnam helped him shape the vision he bought to the team. There are moments of sheer triumph and heartbreak, as well as an insider’s view of some of the more colourful incidents in the modern history of the New Zealand Maori team – both on the field and away from it! Against the Odds is an intriguing insight into the national treasure that is the New Zealand Maori team. It’s a rugby story with a difference.