All Blacks fear hotel scandal will unite England

With four unnamed players facing police questioning over an incident involving a woman called Angel in an Auckland hotel, former Wales boss Hansen said: "I think it'll bring them closer together as a unit."

England have moved on to Christchurch for Saturday's Second Test with tour manager Rob Andrew under increasing pressure over the sordid allegations.

But Hansen insists: "Whenever you see teams or families put under pressure, they always unite and become closer and I think that is what will happen for the English team.

"They'll batten down the hatches and look after each other." Former England coach Dick Best has a less optimistic view of the events which have left rugby-mad New Zealand agog.

He said: "This has left our game tarnished, whatever the outcome of the investigation. It's a digrace.

"What this demonstrates is that when you take a largely young squad on an England tour, the protocols of such ventures must be spelled out to them before leaving home.

"I blame Rob Andrew. He's toured with England and the Lions and he knows damn well that you must get the excited youngsters in your squad calmed down and fully aware of the pitfalls."

Andrew said: "The players concerned have the complete support of all the players and the management."

Back in England, the man chosen by the RFU to manage the nation's rugby side, World Cup-winner Martin Johnson, is reported to be fuming.

Johnson didn't go on the tour in order to be at his pregnant wife's bedside and doesn't officially take over until next month.

But he has been on the phone to captain Steve Borthwick who said: "I have spoken to Martin. With somebody of Martin Johnson's character, any conversation you have with him is going to be a positive experience."

Best believes than Johnson now needs to install fresh discipline in the England ranks when he assumes control after the New Zealand tour which ends after Saturday morning's Second Test in Christchurch.

Best said: "When Jonno finally takes charge for real, he needs to do so with a whole new code of discipline.

"You are representing your country and you never, ever disgrace your country."