Watch: Sam Cane apologises over incident with pitch invader

All Blacks captain Sam Cane has issued an apology on social media after kicking a pitch invader during his team's 41-12 victory over Los Pumas in the opening match of the Rugby Championship in Mendoza.

The incident occurred after the game had concluded, as the invader dashed around the back of the All Blacks team, who were in the midst of their post-match debrief. In a moment of thoughtlessness, Cane reacted by kicking the young fan.

Realizing his mistake, Cane took to Instagram to express his remorse and assure fans that he intended to make amends.

“Tonight after the game someone ran onto the pitch and I made an error in judgement and played a part in stopping him.” Cane’s Instagram post said.

“I acknowledge this was not my role and it is out of character for me to act in such a way.

“I am really sorry and am disappointed in myself. I am trying my best to contact the individual to apologise and make things right.”

Ten months after losing to Argentina in New Zealand for the first time, the All Blacks ruled out any possibility of another upset in the Rugby Championship with three tries in the first 11 minutes and five in the first half which gave them a 31-0 lead at halftime.

If they go on to success at the World Cup in France, the All Blacks will remember Mendoza as an important stepping stone.

The big win came despite being without some leading players who were held back ahead of the home clash with world champions South Africa next weekend.

The first Test (of a season) is always a bit nervy, not knowing where you are at," All Blacks coach Ian Foster said. "We knew for us to play with tempo, pace and purpose would be crucial and I thought we did that very well.

"We took the game away from them and probably t ook the crowd away from them as well."

Foster surprised many with his selection of Damian McKenzie at five eighth ahead of Richie Mo'unga.

"He (McKenzie) looked nice and calm. He controlled the game really well from 10. I am really pleased for him," Foster said.

additional reporting AAP