New Zealand players have held talks within the squad to try and sort out their problems after the 44-0 defeat at the hands of Great Britain in Hull on Saturday night.

Kiwis captain Roy Asotasi brought the players together behind closed doors in order to bring some stability to the squad after three straight Test defeats.

In addition to Saturday’s thrashing which saw Great Britain claim the series New Zealand lost 20-14 to the British the previous week and 56-0 to Australia two weeks before that.

“The players have had a good sit down and held a think-tank between them all,” said head coach Gary Kemble. “They let themselves down, they know that. They thought that their attitude wasn't good on the field.”

Kemble has had a trying start to his career as New Zealand boss thanks to the three defeats, but added that the players have accepted responsibility for their poor form and have given their backing to the coaching team.

“It was something they wanted to do and they came back with the feedback to us.

“Roy and the core players have put their full backing to the coaching and management team. We're a close-knit unit. We have to stay tight and that's what they want to do.”