Gatland’s Grand Slam-winning Wales side meet the minnows from across the Atlantic at the Millennium Stadium on November 14.

While Gatland and Crowley featured in the same All Blacks side as players, their paths have most recently crossed last year when they coached Waikato and Taranaki respectively in New Zealand domestic rugby.

Gatland admits the chance to catch up with his old foe and colleague will add extra spice to Wales’ meeting with the Cannucks.

"We were lucky enough to experience a couple of All Blacks tours together and also coached against each other in New Zealand," said Gatland.

"His nickname in the squad was Colt, because he was just a baby when he was first selected, but he was very much a senior figure when I arrived and I learnt a lot from him.

"He's taken a big step to travel round the other side of the world to coach, which is another thing we have in common, and we must be careful not to underestimate him and his team.

"If you underestimate a team that's when you get caught. They have a lot of ability in their squad and they come very close to upsetting a few teams in the past so we have to ensure we prepare properly and remain focused.”