Happy Birthday Richie!!!!
& Happy New Year everyone!!!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Rugby highlights of the decade
http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/rugby-highlights-decade-3317076
Tuesday December 22, 2009
Source: Reuters
Player of the decade: Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
To be named the International Rugby Board (IRB) world player of the year twice would be an impressive-enough feat for a free-scoring winger but to achieve that distinction while doing much of your work buried under a pile of bodies shows how highly respected McCaw is at the highest level.
Still only 28, he has been a ball-stealing giant for his country and a monumental force of frustration for opponents since making his debut in 2001. Tri Nations titles, a grand slam tour of Europe, a clean-sweep over the British and Irish Lions, 80 caps and countless individual awards have all come his way but he will retire contented only if he can extend his greatness two years into the next decade and help New Zealand to win the World Cup on home soil.
Defining moment: Jonny Wilkinson's drop-goal to win the 2003 World Cup final.
England should have wrapped up the match in normal time and again in extra time but Australia refused to buckle and somehow remained level with the clock ticking into the last minute.
That was when Clive Woodward's six years of plotting came to glorious fruition. As 80,000 fans and millions of television viewers boiled over, England's calm decision-makers set up and perfectly executed a lineout. Matt Dawson snatched another 10 metres, Martin Johnson drove on to enable his team mates to slip into their allotted places, and Wilkinson, on his wrong foot, landed the drop goal that secured England's first World Cup and ended the Tri-Nations' stranglehold of rugby's ultimate prize.
Match of the decade: South Africa beat the British and Irish Lions 28-25 in Pretoria to clinch the 2009 series.
The year's ferocious and nerve-shreddingly tense second test encapsulated what the Lions mean to the sport in 80 unforgettable minutes that began with Schalk Burger's first-minute gouging and ended with a last-gasp, 55-metre, series-clinching penalty by 21-year-old Morne Steyn in only his second test.
The game was soaked with violent aggression, both legal and otherwise, and relentless drama as the best Lions performance for 12 years saw them surge into a 18-9 lead only for the world champion Springboks to claw their way back. With the scores level at 25-all and the series heading for a Johannesburg decider, Ronan O'Gara's moment of madness and local hero Steyn's ice-cool nerve and trusted technique meant the hosts took the series, but the match ensured the Lions concept remained very much alive.
Tuesday December 22, 2009
Source: Reuters
Player of the decade: Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
To be named the International Rugby Board (IRB) world player of the year twice would be an impressive-enough feat for a free-scoring winger but to achieve that distinction while doing much of your work buried under a pile of bodies shows how highly respected McCaw is at the highest level.
Still only 28, he has been a ball-stealing giant for his country and a monumental force of frustration for opponents since making his debut in 2001. Tri Nations titles, a grand slam tour of Europe, a clean-sweep over the British and Irish Lions, 80 caps and countless individual awards have all come his way but he will retire contented only if he can extend his greatness two years into the next decade and help New Zealand to win the World Cup on home soil.
Defining moment: Jonny Wilkinson's drop-goal to win the 2003 World Cup final.
England should have wrapped up the match in normal time and again in extra time but Australia refused to buckle and somehow remained level with the clock ticking into the last minute.
That was when Clive Woodward's six years of plotting came to glorious fruition. As 80,000 fans and millions of television viewers boiled over, England's calm decision-makers set up and perfectly executed a lineout. Matt Dawson snatched another 10 metres, Martin Johnson drove on to enable his team mates to slip into their allotted places, and Wilkinson, on his wrong foot, landed the drop goal that secured England's first World Cup and ended the Tri-Nations' stranglehold of rugby's ultimate prize.
Match of the decade: South Africa beat the British and Irish Lions 28-25 in Pretoria to clinch the 2009 series.
The year's ferocious and nerve-shreddingly tense second test encapsulated what the Lions mean to the sport in 80 unforgettable minutes that began with Schalk Burger's first-minute gouging and ended with a last-gasp, 55-metre, series-clinching penalty by 21-year-old Morne Steyn in only his second test.
The game was soaked with violent aggression, both legal and otherwise, and relentless drama as the best Lions performance for 12 years saw them surge into a 18-9 lead only for the world champion Springboks to claw their way back. With the scores level at 25-all and the series heading for a Johannesburg decider, Ronan O'Gara's moment of madness and local hero Steyn's ice-cool nerve and trusted technique meant the hosts took the series, but the match ensured the Lions concept remained very much alive.
The 2009 year of rugby in review
http://tvnz.co.nz/all-blacks/2009-year-rugby-in-review-3317955
Thursday December 24, 2009
By tvnz.co.nz's rugby reporter Chris Matthews
Source: ONE Sport
Two years out from the 2011 rugby World Cup in New Zealand and the All Blacks re-emerged in familiar territory.
They once again finished on top of the IRB standings, for the fifth time in the seven years since their inception, however, as we all know, the year was far from perfect.
The All Blacks dropped four of 14 Test matches for their worst return since 1998 and it was the only the successful end of year tour to Japan and Europe, where Graham Henry's side surged to five consecutive Test wins, that kept the naysayers at bay.
Of biggest concern for a squad, that will attempt to get New Zealand's hand on the holy grail of rugby in less than 24 months time, is the emergence of the world champion Springboks as a true bogey team.
The South Africans surged to three Test wins over the All Blacks this year and in doing so reclaimed the Tri Nations title that they last held in 2004.
The world champion's exposure of the All Blacks vacillating lineout dominated headlines' throughout the Tri Nations and only a bizarre coach rotation on the end of year tour ironed out the confusion.
Henry's side was also unable to adapt to the paradigm shift in the modern game as the Springboks mastered the up-and-under chase stratagem with ruthless precision.
While the All Blacks floundered under these tactics, the common man also switched off as the IRB's reversal on some of the contentious ELVs translated into a humdrum spectacle.
But more distressing than the ever changing evolution of the game is the eternal old question: What would the All Blacks do without their two lynchpins - Richie McCaw and Daniel Carter?
In three of the four Tests losses Carter was an absentee while McCaw was also notably missing from the first Test of the All Blacks 2009 campaign as the demons of Cardiff 2007 resurfaced in Dunedin on a dark June night.
The unpredictable French arrived on these shores given little hope of repeating the unthinkable but they out-hustled an All Blacks side for a famous 27-22 victory .
Fullback Mils Muliaina became the All Blacks 64th Test captain in that Test and a week later he and his side gained a semblance of redemption with a hard-fought 14-10 win on a wet and windy Wellington night.
The Italians were then dismissed in a forgettable June Test before the All Blacks began their Tri Nations campaign.
While Henry's men continued their dominance over the Wallabies, with four Test wins to easily retain the Bledisloe Cup, the Springboks were the undisputed Southern Hemisphere force in 2009 as they dropped just one Tri Nations Test to Australia.
Before their Tri Nations glories, the South Africans also put to bed the demons of 1997 with a 2-1 series victory over the British and Irish Lions in what was arguably the most compelling rugby 2009 had to offer.
By the end of the season however the Springboks were a different beast as the tiring world champions dropped two Tests, to France and Ireland, on their end of year tour to relinquish their number one ranking.
The All Blacks though continued their dominant Northern Hemisphere form of the past two years as they swept aside all before them without conceding a try and thankfully their season finally reached perfection in their last Test of the season, a magical 39-12 demolition of the French in Marseille .
The All Blacks season ended with a largely second string side going down to a Bryan Habana inspired Baa-baas side by 25-18 but nevertheless 2009 produced many positives as numerous players climbed from the fringe Test category to being key figures.
Most notable was workhorse Canterbury loose-forward Kieran Read who played in all 13 Tests to supersede Rodney So'oialo as the All Blacks first choice number eight.
Other relatively new players to stamp their mark included Cory Jane, Zac Guildford, Adam Thomson, Tom Donnelly and Owen Franks while Conrad Smith, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Jimmy Cowan, Brad Thorn, Andrew Hore and Muliaina only enhanced their growing reputations.
On the other hand, Joe Rokocoko's dramatic fall from grace was confirmed when he was left out of the end of year tour squad.
The All Blacks third all time leading try scorer was unable to adapt to the all-round modern day demands of a wing three-quarter as fullback-cum-wingers like Jane and Otago's Ben Smith were preferred.
Stephen Donald too was found wanting as a Test quality first five-eighth as Carter recovered from an Achilles heal injury in the early part of the Test itinerary. By the end of the season, Bay of Plenty's Mike Delany had overtaken him as the All Blacks preferred second choice and now Donald's Test prospects are looking uncertain for 2010.
Donald however will be hoping he can resurrect his form that led the Chiefs all the way to the Super 14 final.
The perpetual under-achievers overcame another slow start to roar into the semi-finals where they defeated the Hurricanes, before running into a Blue brick wall in the Super 14 final in Pretoria .
The 2008 Champion Crusaders, in their first season without super coach Robbie Deans, surprised many by making the semi-finals before going down to the eventual champions while the Blues and Highlanders finished ninth and eleventh respectively.
The Canterbury machine however did defend their Air NZ Cup title despite losing the Ranfurly Shield to Southland just weeks earlier. Indeed Southland's Shield victory was the feel good rugby story of the year as the city of Invercargill embraced the Log O' Wood with true lustre.
This sentiment spread to many provincial corners throughout the country during the Air NZ Cup as the NZRU threatened to cull four teams from the 2010 edition.
But with overwhelming public backing for the retention of 14 teams and with the threat of law-suits, the NZRU made an almighty U-turn and retained the status quo for the second year in a row.
However the blueprint for a two seven team divisions for 2011 has been outlined by the NZRU and New Zealand Players Association with a firm decision expected in the New Year.
Three of the stars of the Air NZ Cup this season - Aaron Cruden, Zac Guildford and Robbie Robinson - earlier helped the New Zealand under-20 side to the world title in Japan.
The year was unfortunately bitter-sweet for Guildford however as his father tragically passed away while watching his son score two tries in the final.
The 20-year-old sensation though was deservedly named the young player of the year at the rugby awards while the irrepressible McCaw added a third Kelvin R Tremain Memorial Player of the Year award to his mounting mantelpiece.
The All Blacks captain was also named the IRB player of the year for the second time this decade but there is little doubt that he swap would all his individual accolades for a taste of World Cup glory.
Thursday December 24, 2009
By tvnz.co.nz's rugby reporter Chris Matthews
Source: ONE Sport
Two years out from the 2011 rugby World Cup in New Zealand and the All Blacks re-emerged in familiar territory.
They once again finished on top of the IRB standings, for the fifth time in the seven years since their inception, however, as we all know, the year was far from perfect.
The All Blacks dropped four of 14 Test matches for their worst return since 1998 and it was the only the successful end of year tour to Japan and Europe, where Graham Henry's side surged to five consecutive Test wins, that kept the naysayers at bay.
Of biggest concern for a squad, that will attempt to get New Zealand's hand on the holy grail of rugby in less than 24 months time, is the emergence of the world champion Springboks as a true bogey team.
The South Africans surged to three Test wins over the All Blacks this year and in doing so reclaimed the Tri Nations title that they last held in 2004.
The world champion's exposure of the All Blacks vacillating lineout dominated headlines' throughout the Tri Nations and only a bizarre coach rotation on the end of year tour ironed out the confusion.
Henry's side was also unable to adapt to the paradigm shift in the modern game as the Springboks mastered the up-and-under chase stratagem with ruthless precision.
While the All Blacks floundered under these tactics, the common man also switched off as the IRB's reversal on some of the contentious ELVs translated into a humdrum spectacle.
But more distressing than the ever changing evolution of the game is the eternal old question: What would the All Blacks do without their two lynchpins - Richie McCaw and Daniel Carter?
In three of the four Tests losses Carter was an absentee while McCaw was also notably missing from the first Test of the All Blacks 2009 campaign as the demons of Cardiff 2007 resurfaced in Dunedin on a dark June night.
The unpredictable French arrived on these shores given little hope of repeating the unthinkable but they out-hustled an All Blacks side for a famous 27-22 victory .
Fullback Mils Muliaina became the All Blacks 64th Test captain in that Test and a week later he and his side gained a semblance of redemption with a hard-fought 14-10 win on a wet and windy Wellington night.
The Italians were then dismissed in a forgettable June Test before the All Blacks began their Tri Nations campaign.
While Henry's men continued their dominance over the Wallabies, with four Test wins to easily retain the Bledisloe Cup, the Springboks were the undisputed Southern Hemisphere force in 2009 as they dropped just one Tri Nations Test to Australia.
Before their Tri Nations glories, the South Africans also put to bed the demons of 1997 with a 2-1 series victory over the British and Irish Lions in what was arguably the most compelling rugby 2009 had to offer.
By the end of the season however the Springboks were a different beast as the tiring world champions dropped two Tests, to France and Ireland, on their end of year tour to relinquish their number one ranking.
The All Blacks though continued their dominant Northern Hemisphere form of the past two years as they swept aside all before them without conceding a try and thankfully their season finally reached perfection in their last Test of the season, a magical 39-12 demolition of the French in Marseille .
The All Blacks season ended with a largely second string side going down to a Bryan Habana inspired Baa-baas side by 25-18 but nevertheless 2009 produced many positives as numerous players climbed from the fringe Test category to being key figures.
Most notable was workhorse Canterbury loose-forward Kieran Read who played in all 13 Tests to supersede Rodney So'oialo as the All Blacks first choice number eight.
Other relatively new players to stamp their mark included Cory Jane, Zac Guildford, Adam Thomson, Tom Donnelly and Owen Franks while Conrad Smith, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Jimmy Cowan, Brad Thorn, Andrew Hore and Muliaina only enhanced their growing reputations.
On the other hand, Joe Rokocoko's dramatic fall from grace was confirmed when he was left out of the end of year tour squad.
The All Blacks third all time leading try scorer was unable to adapt to the all-round modern day demands of a wing three-quarter as fullback-cum-wingers like Jane and Otago's Ben Smith were preferred.
Stephen Donald too was found wanting as a Test quality first five-eighth as Carter recovered from an Achilles heal injury in the early part of the Test itinerary. By the end of the season, Bay of Plenty's Mike Delany had overtaken him as the All Blacks preferred second choice and now Donald's Test prospects are looking uncertain for 2010.
Donald however will be hoping he can resurrect his form that led the Chiefs all the way to the Super 14 final.
The perpetual under-achievers overcame another slow start to roar into the semi-finals where they defeated the Hurricanes, before running into a Blue brick wall in the Super 14 final in Pretoria .
The 2008 Champion Crusaders, in their first season without super coach Robbie Deans, surprised many by making the semi-finals before going down to the eventual champions while the Blues and Highlanders finished ninth and eleventh respectively.
The Canterbury machine however did defend their Air NZ Cup title despite losing the Ranfurly Shield to Southland just weeks earlier. Indeed Southland's Shield victory was the feel good rugby story of the year as the city of Invercargill embraced the Log O' Wood with true lustre.
This sentiment spread to many provincial corners throughout the country during the Air NZ Cup as the NZRU threatened to cull four teams from the 2010 edition.
But with overwhelming public backing for the retention of 14 teams and with the threat of law-suits, the NZRU made an almighty U-turn and retained the status quo for the second year in a row.
However the blueprint for a two seven team divisions for 2011 has been outlined by the NZRU and New Zealand Players Association with a firm decision expected in the New Year.
Three of the stars of the Air NZ Cup this season - Aaron Cruden, Zac Guildford and Robbie Robinson - earlier helped the New Zealand under-20 side to the world title in Japan.
The year was unfortunately bitter-sweet for Guildford however as his father tragically passed away while watching his son score two tries in the final.
The 20-year-old sensation though was deservedly named the young player of the year at the rugby awards while the irrepressible McCaw added a third Kelvin R Tremain Memorial Player of the Year award to his mounting mantelpiece.
The All Blacks captain was also named the IRB player of the year for the second time this decade but there is little doubt that he swap would all his individual accolades for a taste of World Cup glory.
Rugby's team of the decade
http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/rugby-s-team-decade-3315631
Sunday December 20, 2009
Source: NZPA
A New Zealand rugby writer's team of the decade has found room for plenty of All Blacks
Fullback: Mils Muliaina (New Zealand) Not a vintage decade for fullbacks but few could quibble with the safe-as-houses All Blacks custodian, who mixed enduring reliability with a timely sense of adventure. Hard-running Wallaby Chris Latham eclipsed Muliaina as an attacking force, league convert Jason Robinson was dynamic in a too-short career for England and Percy Montgomery piled on the points for South Africa.
Right Wing: Doug Howlett (New Zealand) Quite sparse in world class options, with the sharp Howlett's consistent form easily winning the nod. Next best was Springbok livewire Breyton Paulse, with the rest of the world's premier wingers preferring the left flank.
Left Wing: Bryan Habana (South Africa) The Springbok with jet shoes beats off a strong field through his ability to create tries from nothing, allied with tough defence and leaping skills. Somewhat unlucky are diminutive Welsh wizard Shane Williams, whose 50 test tries are the most in any decade of the sport, Wallabies powerhouse Lote Tuqiri and All Blacks flyer Joe Rokocoko.
Centre: Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) You have to be pretty good to shut out Australasian greats Tana Umaga and Stirling Mortlock but Irish star O'Driscoll has shone brightly from decade's start to finish. The lynchpin of a golden era by Ireland standards, he is the rare exception - a modern-day British or Irish back packing pace and attacking instinct. Others to feature were Springboks bruiser Jaque Fourie and clever yet underrated Englishman Will Greenwood.
Second Five-Eighth: Yannick Jauzion (France) Again, Umaga and Mortlock miss out through lack of tests in the No 12 jersey. The hulking Jauzion brings a physical element mixed with some typically unexpected French touches, including a mean offload. Classy perfomers included Springbok Jean de Villiers and All Black Aaron Mauger.
First Five-Eighth: Daniel Carter (New Zealand) Superboot Jonny Wilkinson had the decade's No 10 jersey to himself until Carter announced his genius from 2004 - about the time England started to crumble. A tough call due to Wilkinson's massive role in the 2003 World Cup triumph but Carter provided an extra dimension to better all but a select few playmakers in rugby history. His 994 points eclipse the 936 of Welsh marksman Neil Jenkins last decade but Carter's influence is so much more than pointscoring. Gifted Wallaby Stephen Larkham was replaced by another brilliant Brumby, Matt Giteau, while Frederic Michalak was French flair personified and Juan Martin Hernandez was the decade's most exciting Puma. Ireland's Ronan O'Gara and Welshman Stephen Jones served their nations admirably.
Halfback: Fourie du Preez (South Africa) A class above any other No 9 in terms of game management. Taunted New Zealand teams this year with his kicking for the Boks and Bulls, yet has vision and a running game suited for any occasion. George Gregan's marathon career only faded a little at the end and Ireland's Peter Stringer provided yeoman service. Matt Dawson was a snappy English schemer while Justin Marshall and Byron Kelleher brought physicalty to the New Zealand scrum base.
No 8: Lawrence Dallaglio (England) Tough call ahead of athletic Italian Sergio Parisse but Dallaglio's muscular influence can't be played down in an English pack that bulldozed their way to a 2003 climax. Rodney So'oialo was a non-stop All Blacks workhorse, Imanol Harinordoquy a spring-heeled Frenchman and Simon Taylor promised plenty for Scotland but progress was foiled too often by injury.
Openside Flanker: Richie McCaw (New Zealand) Seemingly plenty left in the tank yet McCaw has already forged his name as one of the All Blacks' greatest. Enormous heart, strength and a ruthless streak when it comes to the game's laws. McCaw's importance is emphasised every time he doesn't play. Perhaps the unluckiest player to miss selection in this team is Wallabies scavenger George Smith, whose lofty standards rarely slipped in 110 tests. A case could be made to include him and shift McCaw to another loose forward role. Among the better opensides were Springbok Schalk Burger, Aussie Phil Waugh, France's Olivier Magne and Martyn Williams of Wales.
Blindside Flanker: Juan Smith (South Africa) Smith emerges from a clutch of quality options courtesy of his lineout prowess and allround attributes. All Black Jerry Collins and Wallaby Rocky Elsom were hard nuts while Richard Hill was the glue in England's early-decade forward dominance.
Locks: Victor Matfield (South Africa) and Martin Johnson (England) Perhaps the position with more world class options than any over the past 10 years. Lineout lord Matfield gave nightmares to nearly every pack he encountered, most notably the English eight in the 2007 World Cup final. His lineout preparation and execution were exemplary, allowing him to cast a giant shadow over a crucial element of the game. Johnson was one of the great leaders of men and massive presence in the giant white pack. Among a coterie of standout locks were Frenchman Fabien Pelous, Ireland's Paul O'Connell, Springbok Bakkies Botha, All Blacks Chris Jack and Ali Williams and Wallabies Nathan Sharpe and Daniel Vickerman.
Tighthead Prop: Carl Hayman (New Zealand) The scourge of opposition scrums through the middle of the decade, All Blacks fans are desperate he return home from England ahead of the 2011 World Cup. Leading a decent chasing pack is English nugget Phil Vickery while Frenchman Peter de Villiers, Wales' Adam Jones, Italian Martin Castrogiovanni and All Black Greg Somerville all stood strong.
Loosehead Prop: Tony Woodcock (New Zealand) The loosehead side isn't as flush with options. Woodcock's work around the field helps pip other noted scrummagers such as France's Sylvain Marconnet, Argentine Rodrigo Roncero and England's Andy Sheridan. Welshman Gethin Jenkins had his moments and it was hard not to admire the second coming of Bok favourite Os du Randt.
Hooker: John Smit (South Africa) Unchallenged in this position, Smit would also captain this side in a tight call over Johnson. A strong enough scrummager to start big tests at prop and forged an enviable lineout combination with Matfield, Botha and Juan Smith. Keven Mealamu was brilliant at times for New Zealand while England's Steve Thompson and French rake Raphael Ibanez excelled in the tight.
Player Of The Decade: A shortlist of three would probably comprise O'Driscoll, Matfield and McCaw. All are proven matchwinners, carry enormous influence in their teams and rarely play a bad game. The nod goes to McCaw for an equally dominant career at the next level down with the Crusaders, the rugged No 7 somehow powering on in rugby's most demanding position.
Team selected by NZPA's Daniel Gilhooly.
Sunday December 20, 2009
Source: NZPA
A New Zealand rugby writer's team of the decade has found room for plenty of All Blacks
Fullback: Mils Muliaina (New Zealand) Not a vintage decade for fullbacks but few could quibble with the safe-as-houses All Blacks custodian, who mixed enduring reliability with a timely sense of adventure. Hard-running Wallaby Chris Latham eclipsed Muliaina as an attacking force, league convert Jason Robinson was dynamic in a too-short career for England and Percy Montgomery piled on the points for South Africa.
Right Wing: Doug Howlett (New Zealand) Quite sparse in world class options, with the sharp Howlett's consistent form easily winning the nod. Next best was Springbok livewire Breyton Paulse, with the rest of the world's premier wingers preferring the left flank.
Left Wing: Bryan Habana (South Africa) The Springbok with jet shoes beats off a strong field through his ability to create tries from nothing, allied with tough defence and leaping skills. Somewhat unlucky are diminutive Welsh wizard Shane Williams, whose 50 test tries are the most in any decade of the sport, Wallabies powerhouse Lote Tuqiri and All Blacks flyer Joe Rokocoko.
Centre: Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) You have to be pretty good to shut out Australasian greats Tana Umaga and Stirling Mortlock but Irish star O'Driscoll has shone brightly from decade's start to finish. The lynchpin of a golden era by Ireland standards, he is the rare exception - a modern-day British or Irish back packing pace and attacking instinct. Others to feature were Springboks bruiser Jaque Fourie and clever yet underrated Englishman Will Greenwood.
Second Five-Eighth: Yannick Jauzion (France) Again, Umaga and Mortlock miss out through lack of tests in the No 12 jersey. The hulking Jauzion brings a physical element mixed with some typically unexpected French touches, including a mean offload. Classy perfomers included Springbok Jean de Villiers and All Black Aaron Mauger.
First Five-Eighth: Daniel Carter (New Zealand) Superboot Jonny Wilkinson had the decade's No 10 jersey to himself until Carter announced his genius from 2004 - about the time England started to crumble. A tough call due to Wilkinson's massive role in the 2003 World Cup triumph but Carter provided an extra dimension to better all but a select few playmakers in rugby history. His 994 points eclipse the 936 of Welsh marksman Neil Jenkins last decade but Carter's influence is so much more than pointscoring. Gifted Wallaby Stephen Larkham was replaced by another brilliant Brumby, Matt Giteau, while Frederic Michalak was French flair personified and Juan Martin Hernandez was the decade's most exciting Puma. Ireland's Ronan O'Gara and Welshman Stephen Jones served their nations admirably.
Halfback: Fourie du Preez (South Africa) A class above any other No 9 in terms of game management. Taunted New Zealand teams this year with his kicking for the Boks and Bulls, yet has vision and a running game suited for any occasion. George Gregan's marathon career only faded a little at the end and Ireland's Peter Stringer provided yeoman service. Matt Dawson was a snappy English schemer while Justin Marshall and Byron Kelleher brought physicalty to the New Zealand scrum base.
No 8: Lawrence Dallaglio (England) Tough call ahead of athletic Italian Sergio Parisse but Dallaglio's muscular influence can't be played down in an English pack that bulldozed their way to a 2003 climax. Rodney So'oialo was a non-stop All Blacks workhorse, Imanol Harinordoquy a spring-heeled Frenchman and Simon Taylor promised plenty for Scotland but progress was foiled too often by injury.
Openside Flanker: Richie McCaw (New Zealand) Seemingly plenty left in the tank yet McCaw has already forged his name as one of the All Blacks' greatest. Enormous heart, strength and a ruthless streak when it comes to the game's laws. McCaw's importance is emphasised every time he doesn't play. Perhaps the unluckiest player to miss selection in this team is Wallabies scavenger George Smith, whose lofty standards rarely slipped in 110 tests. A case could be made to include him and shift McCaw to another loose forward role. Among the better opensides were Springbok Schalk Burger, Aussie Phil Waugh, France's Olivier Magne and Martyn Williams of Wales.
Blindside Flanker: Juan Smith (South Africa) Smith emerges from a clutch of quality options courtesy of his lineout prowess and allround attributes. All Black Jerry Collins and Wallaby Rocky Elsom were hard nuts while Richard Hill was the glue in England's early-decade forward dominance.
Locks: Victor Matfield (South Africa) and Martin Johnson (England) Perhaps the position with more world class options than any over the past 10 years. Lineout lord Matfield gave nightmares to nearly every pack he encountered, most notably the English eight in the 2007 World Cup final. His lineout preparation and execution were exemplary, allowing him to cast a giant shadow over a crucial element of the game. Johnson was one of the great leaders of men and massive presence in the giant white pack. Among a coterie of standout locks were Frenchman Fabien Pelous, Ireland's Paul O'Connell, Springbok Bakkies Botha, All Blacks Chris Jack and Ali Williams and Wallabies Nathan Sharpe and Daniel Vickerman.
Tighthead Prop: Carl Hayman (New Zealand) The scourge of opposition scrums through the middle of the decade, All Blacks fans are desperate he return home from England ahead of the 2011 World Cup. Leading a decent chasing pack is English nugget Phil Vickery while Frenchman Peter de Villiers, Wales' Adam Jones, Italian Martin Castrogiovanni and All Black Greg Somerville all stood strong.
Loosehead Prop: Tony Woodcock (New Zealand) The loosehead side isn't as flush with options. Woodcock's work around the field helps pip other noted scrummagers such as France's Sylvain Marconnet, Argentine Rodrigo Roncero and England's Andy Sheridan. Welshman Gethin Jenkins had his moments and it was hard not to admire the second coming of Bok favourite Os du Randt.
Hooker: John Smit (South Africa) Unchallenged in this position, Smit would also captain this side in a tight call over Johnson. A strong enough scrummager to start big tests at prop and forged an enviable lineout combination with Matfield, Botha and Juan Smith. Keven Mealamu was brilliant at times for New Zealand while England's Steve Thompson and French rake Raphael Ibanez excelled in the tight.
Player Of The Decade: A shortlist of three would probably comprise O'Driscoll, Matfield and McCaw. All are proven matchwinners, carry enormous influence in their teams and rarely play a bad game. The nod goes to McCaw for an equally dominant career at the next level down with the Crusaders, the rugged No 7 somehow powering on in rugby's most demanding position.
Team selected by NZPA's Daniel Gilhooly.
Changes made to Crusaders draw
http://www.crusaders.co.nz/news/changes-made-to-crusaders-draw/352/news.aspx
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Changes have been made to two of the Crusaders final round-robin matches.
Matches for Weeks 13 and 14 of the competition have been amended following a change in flight schedules which would have impacted on team preparations.
The Crusaders were due to fly home after their round 13 match against the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday 8 May 2010. However, the later arrival of their Sydney to Christchurch international flight, meant a shorter preparation time heading into their home-game against the Brumbies in Week 14.
The changes to the 2010 Super 14 draw are as follows:
Week 13
Friday 7 May, Bulls v Crusaders, Pretoria (previously Saturday 8 May).
Saturday 8 May, Lions v Blues, Johannesburg (previously Friday 7 May).
Week 14
Friday 14 May, Crusaders v Brumbies, Christchurch (previously Saturday 15 May).
Saturday 15 May, Blues v Chiefs, Auckland (previously Friday 14 May).
The 2010 season : http://www.crusaders.co.nz/net/results/
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Changes have been made to two of the Crusaders final round-robin matches.
Matches for Weeks 13 and 14 of the competition have been amended following a change in flight schedules which would have impacted on team preparations.
The Crusaders were due to fly home after their round 13 match against the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday 8 May 2010. However, the later arrival of their Sydney to Christchurch international flight, meant a shorter preparation time heading into their home-game against the Brumbies in Week 14.
The changes to the 2010 Super 14 draw are as follows:
Week 13
Friday 7 May, Bulls v Crusaders, Pretoria (previously Saturday 8 May).
Saturday 8 May, Lions v Blues, Johannesburg (previously Friday 7 May).
Week 14
Friday 14 May, Crusaders v Brumbies, Christchurch (previously Saturday 15 May).
Saturday 15 May, Blues v Chiefs, Auckland (previously Friday 14 May).
The 2010 season : http://www.crusaders.co.nz/net/results/
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The players that shaped the decade
http://www.scrum.com/scrum/rugby/story/107490.html
Scrum.com
December 23, 2009
As the decade draws to a close, Scrum Sevens offers our selection of the best players to have laced up their boots in the last ten years.
This has not been an easy task and there are bound to be those who disagree with our choices but these are the players we feel deserve acclaim for helping to shape the game throughout the Noughties.
Four forwards, three backs - four from the south, three from the north - let the feedback commence!
Brian O'Driscoll - Ireland, British & Irish Lions
A class apart. Many may argue that the talismanic Irishman has done enough in the last 12 months to warrant a place in list - a Six Nations Grand Slam and an undefeated year with Ireland, a Heineken Cup success with Leinster and another all-action contribution for the British & Irish Lions - but the truth of the matter is that the courageous centre has excelled for the best part of the last ten years.
He may have made his international bow in the latter stages of the 1990s, but it was not until the inaugural Six Nations Championship in 2000 that he came to the attention of the wider rugby audience. A hat-trick of tries against France at the Stade de France by a then 21-year-old O'Driscoll served as a signal of great things to come. Selection for the Lions' tour to Australia followed in 2001 and his eye-catching contribution included a superb try at The Gabba. There was more agony and ecstasy with the Lions in 2005 when the honour of leading the tourists was soured by a tour-ending spear by All Blacks' Tana Umaga and Keven Mealamu.
A third tour with the Lions would come four years later, when he was unlucky not to be handed the captaincy once again, and in between there were three Triple Crowns and a couple of Magners League titles. 'BOD' has been the Six Nations Player of the Year in three of the last four seasons and short-listed for the International Rugby Board's top honour three times, including this year - how he managed to be over-looked is beyond us. Despite his physical approach, no-one has started more Tests than O'Driscoll in the last ten years and there is life in the old dog yet.
Richie McCaw - New Zealand
'Captain Tackles; reigns supreme. The reigning IRB Player of the Year has been at the forefront of New Zealand rugby since making his All Blacks debut in 2001 - the same year he was hailed as the International Newcomer of the Year by the sport's governing body. He has delivered on that promise to the point that there is no more respected or envied player in the world game. The master of the breakdown, where he plays on the edge (and sometimes over it if you are to believe his opponents), cease and desist do not appear to be in his vocabulary.
His value to the All Blacks is clearly evident every time he doesn't suit up - when he does they normally win and can reflect on several Tri-Nations titles and a series victory over the Lions with McCaw at their heart and latterly at the helm. But his side's high-profile failures at the decade's two Rugby World Cups have taken some of the shine off an otherwise glittering CV that also includes five Super Rugby titles with the Crusdaers. His latest IRB honour saw him become the first player to claim the award twice while earlier this month he also collected the Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial, as New Zealand's player of the year, for an unprecedented third time. He will embark on the next decade still in his 20s with some unfinished business high on his agenda at RWC'11 but his rivals for the openside crown are looming large.
John Smit - South Africa
The most-capped captain of all time wrote his name into the record books by leading the Springboks from the disappointment and ridicule of Rugby World Cup 2003 and Kamp Staaldraad to Tri-Nations glory the following year, but the hooker/prop cemented his place amongst the greats by steering his country to the 2007 Rugby World Cup title. There was more success in 2009 with a hard-fought series victory against the Lions laying the foundation for the Springboks' third Tri-Nations title.
A man of great stature both on and off the field, it his leadership prowess that separates him from his peers, famously delivering an inspirational and game-changing rallying call under the posts against Fiji at RWC'07 and another to unite a side divided by the inclusion of the controversial Luke Watson. He is set to claim his 100th Test cap in 2010 unless the Springboks opt to wrap him in cotton wool ahead of the defence of their RWC crown.
Dan Carter - New Zealand
England's Jonny Wilkinson looked set to be the dominant fly-half of the decade after a blistering opening that culminated with the defining moment of 2003 Rugby World Cup. But then fate intervened with injury woe for Wilko and the emergence of Carter.
One of the true superstars of the game, he is the All Blacks' leading all-time Test points-scorer having eclipsed the mark of Andrew Mehrtens earlier this year. As is the case with McCaw, the All Blacks are a far better side when he plays and near unbeatable when he is playing well - just ask France after their recent Marseille mauling. None of his contemporaries have a complete all-round game to match the Cantabrian or the ability to deliver on demand. On-field success has come in the form of Tri-Nations and Super Rugby titles while he also laid claim to the IRB's top honour in 2005 - the same year he helped to dismantle the Lions. He is another of our 'greats' to be missing a Rugby World Cup winner's medal, but at 27 years of age time is still on his side. We'll also forgive him his money-making sojourn to France.
Martin Johnson - England, British & Irish Lions
The current England manager may have hung his boots up several years ago but he left an indelible mark on the early part of the decade. He was already a pillar of strength in the England set-up at the dawn of the Noughties and back-to-back Six Nations titles and a further Grand Slam laid the foundation for England's march to the 2003 Rugby World Cup crown, with 'Johnno' lifting the much-prized trophy in Sydney.
Johnson led the Lions to a series victory over South Africa in 1997 and so made history in 2001 when he became the first player to be asked to lead the elite tourists for a second time - on this occasion to Australia. The hulking lock was unable to inspire more success but would exact revenge on the Wallabies in time. There was also domestic success aplenty with the Johnson-led Leicester dominating not only their Premiership rivals but their European foes with back-to-back Heineken Cup triumphs. The goodwill generated from his achievements left him in good stead for the rest of the decade but the pressures of international management pose a whole new challenge in the years ahead.
Shane Williams - Wales, British & Irish Lions
The lightning quick feet of Welsh wing wizard Williams have danced their way through the last ten years to dazzling effect. Williams made a try-scoring full debut for Wales against Italy in the 2000 Six Nations and went on to notch 50 tries - two for the Lions. Those scores have lit up Rugby World Cups and propelled Wales to two Grand Slams and more recently brought him the IRB's highest personal accolade. His latest eye-catching effort against Argentina last month illustrated that he still has plenty of gas to burn.
George Smith - Australia
Smith's work-rate and commitment to the cause have not faltered in the past ten years and as a result it is not surprising that that no-one has been capped more times in the Noughties. The Wallabies stalwart has racked up 110 Test appearances since his debut against France in 2000 - the same year he made his professional bow. Rugby World Cup glory may have painfully evaded him in 2003, but he can still reflect on a Tri-Nations title, a series victory over the Lions - including a man-of-the-match performance against in the third and deciding Test in Sydney, and Super 12 success with the Brumbies.
Scrum.com
December 23, 2009
As the decade draws to a close, Scrum Sevens offers our selection of the best players to have laced up their boots in the last ten years.
This has not been an easy task and there are bound to be those who disagree with our choices but these are the players we feel deserve acclaim for helping to shape the game throughout the Noughties.
Four forwards, three backs - four from the south, three from the north - let the feedback commence!
Brian O'Driscoll - Ireland, British & Irish Lions
A class apart. Many may argue that the talismanic Irishman has done enough in the last 12 months to warrant a place in list - a Six Nations Grand Slam and an undefeated year with Ireland, a Heineken Cup success with Leinster and another all-action contribution for the British & Irish Lions - but the truth of the matter is that the courageous centre has excelled for the best part of the last ten years.
He may have made his international bow in the latter stages of the 1990s, but it was not until the inaugural Six Nations Championship in 2000 that he came to the attention of the wider rugby audience. A hat-trick of tries against France at the Stade de France by a then 21-year-old O'Driscoll served as a signal of great things to come. Selection for the Lions' tour to Australia followed in 2001 and his eye-catching contribution included a superb try at The Gabba. There was more agony and ecstasy with the Lions in 2005 when the honour of leading the tourists was soured by a tour-ending spear by All Blacks' Tana Umaga and Keven Mealamu.
A third tour with the Lions would come four years later, when he was unlucky not to be handed the captaincy once again, and in between there were three Triple Crowns and a couple of Magners League titles. 'BOD' has been the Six Nations Player of the Year in three of the last four seasons and short-listed for the International Rugby Board's top honour three times, including this year - how he managed to be over-looked is beyond us. Despite his physical approach, no-one has started more Tests than O'Driscoll in the last ten years and there is life in the old dog yet.
Richie McCaw - New Zealand
'Captain Tackles; reigns supreme. The reigning IRB Player of the Year has been at the forefront of New Zealand rugby since making his All Blacks debut in 2001 - the same year he was hailed as the International Newcomer of the Year by the sport's governing body. He has delivered on that promise to the point that there is no more respected or envied player in the world game. The master of the breakdown, where he plays on the edge (and sometimes over it if you are to believe his opponents), cease and desist do not appear to be in his vocabulary.
His value to the All Blacks is clearly evident every time he doesn't suit up - when he does they normally win and can reflect on several Tri-Nations titles and a series victory over the Lions with McCaw at their heart and latterly at the helm. But his side's high-profile failures at the decade's two Rugby World Cups have taken some of the shine off an otherwise glittering CV that also includes five Super Rugby titles with the Crusdaers. His latest IRB honour saw him become the first player to claim the award twice while earlier this month he also collected the Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial, as New Zealand's player of the year, for an unprecedented third time. He will embark on the next decade still in his 20s with some unfinished business high on his agenda at RWC'11 but his rivals for the openside crown are looming large.
John Smit - South Africa
The most-capped captain of all time wrote his name into the record books by leading the Springboks from the disappointment and ridicule of Rugby World Cup 2003 and Kamp Staaldraad to Tri-Nations glory the following year, but the hooker/prop cemented his place amongst the greats by steering his country to the 2007 Rugby World Cup title. There was more success in 2009 with a hard-fought series victory against the Lions laying the foundation for the Springboks' third Tri-Nations title.
A man of great stature both on and off the field, it his leadership prowess that separates him from his peers, famously delivering an inspirational and game-changing rallying call under the posts against Fiji at RWC'07 and another to unite a side divided by the inclusion of the controversial Luke Watson. He is set to claim his 100th Test cap in 2010 unless the Springboks opt to wrap him in cotton wool ahead of the defence of their RWC crown.
Dan Carter - New Zealand
England's Jonny Wilkinson looked set to be the dominant fly-half of the decade after a blistering opening that culminated with the defining moment of 2003 Rugby World Cup. But then fate intervened with injury woe for Wilko and the emergence of Carter.
One of the true superstars of the game, he is the All Blacks' leading all-time Test points-scorer having eclipsed the mark of Andrew Mehrtens earlier this year. As is the case with McCaw, the All Blacks are a far better side when he plays and near unbeatable when he is playing well - just ask France after their recent Marseille mauling. None of his contemporaries have a complete all-round game to match the Cantabrian or the ability to deliver on demand. On-field success has come in the form of Tri-Nations and Super Rugby titles while he also laid claim to the IRB's top honour in 2005 - the same year he helped to dismantle the Lions. He is another of our 'greats' to be missing a Rugby World Cup winner's medal, but at 27 years of age time is still on his side. We'll also forgive him his money-making sojourn to France.
Martin Johnson - England, British & Irish Lions
The current England manager may have hung his boots up several years ago but he left an indelible mark on the early part of the decade. He was already a pillar of strength in the England set-up at the dawn of the Noughties and back-to-back Six Nations titles and a further Grand Slam laid the foundation for England's march to the 2003 Rugby World Cup crown, with 'Johnno' lifting the much-prized trophy in Sydney.
Johnson led the Lions to a series victory over South Africa in 1997 and so made history in 2001 when he became the first player to be asked to lead the elite tourists for a second time - on this occasion to Australia. The hulking lock was unable to inspire more success but would exact revenge on the Wallabies in time. There was also domestic success aplenty with the Johnson-led Leicester dominating not only their Premiership rivals but their European foes with back-to-back Heineken Cup triumphs. The goodwill generated from his achievements left him in good stead for the rest of the decade but the pressures of international management pose a whole new challenge in the years ahead.
Shane Williams - Wales, British & Irish Lions
The lightning quick feet of Welsh wing wizard Williams have danced their way through the last ten years to dazzling effect. Williams made a try-scoring full debut for Wales against Italy in the 2000 Six Nations and went on to notch 50 tries - two for the Lions. Those scores have lit up Rugby World Cups and propelled Wales to two Grand Slams and more recently brought him the IRB's highest personal accolade. His latest eye-catching effort against Argentina last month illustrated that he still has plenty of gas to burn.
George Smith - Australia
Smith's work-rate and commitment to the cause have not faltered in the past ten years and as a result it is not surprising that that no-one has been capped more times in the Noughties. The Wallabies stalwart has racked up 110 Test appearances since his debut against France in 2000 - the same year he made his professional bow. Rugby World Cup glory may have painfully evaded him in 2003, but he can still reflect on a Tri-Nations title, a series victory over the Lions - including a man-of-the-match performance against in the third and deciding Test in Sydney, and Super 12 success with the Brumbies.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Bionic Man
http://www.nzrugbyworld.co.nz/Article.aspx?id=431
He’s been the ever present man in the All Black back No 7 jersey since he made his debut in 2001. He’s been, possibly, the best openside the world has ever seen and without doubt, Richie McCaw has been the player of the decade. In the December/January issue of NZ Rugby World GREGOR PAUL pays tribute to the All Black captain. Here's a snapshot of the Richie McCaw story so far.
Friday, 04 December 2009
Gregor Paul
1999
Is selected for New Zealand Under 19s.
2000
Makes his debut for Canterbury as a 19-year-old and also plays for New Zealand Under 21s.
2001
Is selected again for New Zealand Under 21s and is also named Under 21 Player of the Year andIRB Newcomer of the Year.
Makes his All Black debut as 20-year-old against Ireland at Lansdowne Road in Dublin.
2002
Is part of Crusaders team that wins the Super 12, becomes a regular All Black and is voted NPC Division One Player of the Year.
2003
Plays in his first World Cup with the All Blacks and is the winner of the Kelvin Tremain Memorial trophy.
2004
Is again the NPC Division One Player of the Year having been part of the Canterbury side that won the title.
At just 23 he captains the All Blacks against Wales in Cardiff when Tana Umaga is rested by the selectors.
2005
Leads the Crusaders to the Super 14 title and is outstanding for the All Blacks against the British Lions.
Is asked to captain the All Blacks for a second time when they clash with Ireland at Lansdowne Road.
2006
Takes over the captaincy full-time following the retirement of Umaga.
Leads his side to 12 wins from tests and is named both IRB Player of the Year and New Zealand Player of the Year.
2007
Plays in every test leading into the World Cup and then scored the All Blacks’ first two tries of the campaign.
Becomes the fastest player to reach 50 test wins with the All Blacks.
2008
Captains the Crusaders to another title but then injures his ankle in the June test series against England.
Recovers to play second half of the Tri Nations and lead New Zealand to their fourth consecutive title.
2009
Leads an under powered Crusaders to the semi-finals but picks up an injury that keeps him out of the Iveco series.
Returns to action and in November he played his 46th test as captain.
He’s been the ever present man in the All Black back No 7 jersey since he made his debut in 2001. He’s been, possibly, the best openside the world has ever seen and without doubt, Richie McCaw has been the player of the decade. In the December/January issue of NZ Rugby World GREGOR PAUL pays tribute to the All Black captain. Here's a snapshot of the Richie McCaw story so far.
Friday, 04 December 2009
Gregor Paul
1999
Is selected for New Zealand Under 19s.
2000
Makes his debut for Canterbury as a 19-year-old and also plays for New Zealand Under 21s.
2001
Is selected again for New Zealand Under 21s and is also named Under 21 Player of the Year andIRB Newcomer of the Year.
Makes his All Black debut as 20-year-old against Ireland at Lansdowne Road in Dublin.
2002
Is part of Crusaders team that wins the Super 12, becomes a regular All Black and is voted NPC Division One Player of the Year.
2003
Plays in his first World Cup with the All Blacks and is the winner of the Kelvin Tremain Memorial trophy.
2004
Is again the NPC Division One Player of the Year having been part of the Canterbury side that won the title.
At just 23 he captains the All Blacks against Wales in Cardiff when Tana Umaga is rested by the selectors.
2005
Leads the Crusaders to the Super 14 title and is outstanding for the All Blacks against the British Lions.
Is asked to captain the All Blacks for a second time when they clash with Ireland at Lansdowne Road.
2006
Takes over the captaincy full-time following the retirement of Umaga.
Leads his side to 12 wins from tests and is named both IRB Player of the Year and New Zealand Player of the Year.
2007
Plays in every test leading into the World Cup and then scored the All Blacks’ first two tries of the campaign.
Becomes the fastest player to reach 50 test wins with the All Blacks.
2008
Captains the Crusaders to another title but then injures his ankle in the June test series against England.
Recovers to play second half of the Tri Nations and lead New Zealand to their fourth consecutive title.
2009
Leads an under powered Crusaders to the semi-finals but picks up an injury that keeps him out of the Iveco series.
Returns to action and in November he played his 46th test as captain.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
All Blacks seeking ring-ins for Carter, McCaw
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3136066/All-Blacks-seeking-ring-ins-for-Carter-McCaw
By TOBY ROBSON - Stuff.co.nz
08/12/2009
Dear Santa, please send us a first five and openside flanker capable of filling the boots of Dan Carter and Richie McCaw.
Oh, and can you also throw in Carl Hayman.
The All Blacks coaches' Christmas wishlist isn't as long as it could be as the tricky pre-World Cup year approaches.
There is acceptable depth in most positions, the aforementioned areas aside. At lock, the midfield and the outside backs in particular things are rosy.
Make no mistake, 2009 was no oil painting. Five losses, whether tests or otherwise, isn't flash by All Blacks standards.
But it was tough, too. Injuries created a vacuum at the start of the season and young men were thrust forward beyond their means.
Isaac Ross was suddenly a test lock. Liam Messam was the starting No8, Adam Thomson the openside and Mils Muliaina the captain.
And Stephen Donald was shoved on to the stage as the starting first-five and told to try on a pair of boots about 20 sizes too big.
It made for a delicate situation and as the new men struggled, their coaches grappled with the game's laws and a South African side at the top of their game.
It's no guarantee of World Cup success to be team of the year two years out.
Henry knows looking back won't help New Zealand end their World Cup drought.
Adversity often builds character.
It cruelly claims its victims, but it also sorts the wheat from the chaff.
Think Kieran Read and Cory Jane for the former. Throw Thomson and Tom Donnelly into the mix too and hand Owen Franks a voucher.
A pat on the back to the three wise men for adapting to the new laws and forging ahead, their efforts rewarded in Marseille.
The most glaring failure of 2009 is the failure to develop creditable backups to Carter and McCaw.
It is like watching a train wreck approach. World Cup knockout match, one or both injured, tournament over.
In 2005, Henry toured the north with two teams worth of players that were the envy of world rugby.
Five years later he did not have that luxury. The reality is that if Henry doesn't test his next tier they will fall further behind their peers and further down towards their international rivals.
The challenge now for the All Blacks is twofold.
They must maintain the standards set in Marseille and they must find some insurance policies for Carter and McCaw.
End of year stock take:
Fullback A
Mils Muliaina is back to his best. Cory Jane's a more than worthy backup. Ben Smith has come on albeit on the wing. Israel Dagg is nipping at their heels.
Wings B +
Sitiveni Sivivatu was brilliant, Jane not far behind. Zac Guildford has potential and Smith had his moments. Hosea Gear was unlucky, Sean Maitland looks the goods.
Midfield B +
Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith continue to improve. Luke McAlister is heading in the right direction and Tamati Ellison made strides in Europe. Richard Kahui and Isaia Toeava await their chance.
Five eighths C
Still no backup to Dan Carter. Stephen Donald's on thin ice. Mike Delany's yet to convince. Aaron Cruden is on everyone's lips. Does Stephen Brett have what it takes?
Halfbacks B-
Jimmy Cowan is entrenched, but not complete. Andy Ellis is a competitor. Brendon Leonard almost disappeared but finished with a bang. Piri Weepu and Alby Mathewson stayed home.
No 8 B
Kieran Read has come on in leaps and bounds.
The position is his to lose. Rodney So'oialo remains a good bad backup and Richie McCaw provides legitimate cover too.
Could Sione Lauaki rise again?
Blindside B
Liam Messam is still too light for test rugby. Adam Thomson and Jerome Kaino provide a nice balance of styles. Read can play six too.
Openside C+
Richie McCaw, then daylight. Tanerau Latimer holds his own, but only just at test level. Karl Lowe still appeals.
Lock A
What a turnaround. Tom Donnelly has established himself at test level, Anthony Boric looks promising, Ali Williams will be back and Brad Thorn is keen to go through till the World Cup. Isaac Ross only just gets a mention and there's a guy called Bryn Evans too.
Props B-
Wyatt Crockett's a mixed bag. John Afoa's there or thereabouts. Neemia Tialata's back. Tony Woodcock was quiet. Owen Franks is a comer. Carl Hayman would fit in nicely.
Hooker B
Andrew Hore is streets ahead. Corey Flynn's solid, but still injury prone. Aled de Malmanche must learn to throw to the lineout. Hika Elliott's lurking and Keven Mealamu is sure to return.
By TOBY ROBSON - Stuff.co.nz
08/12/2009
Dear Santa, please send us a first five and openside flanker capable of filling the boots of Dan Carter and Richie McCaw.
Oh, and can you also throw in Carl Hayman.
The All Blacks coaches' Christmas wishlist isn't as long as it could be as the tricky pre-World Cup year approaches.
There is acceptable depth in most positions, the aforementioned areas aside. At lock, the midfield and the outside backs in particular things are rosy.
Make no mistake, 2009 was no oil painting. Five losses, whether tests or otherwise, isn't flash by All Blacks standards.
But it was tough, too. Injuries created a vacuum at the start of the season and young men were thrust forward beyond their means.
Isaac Ross was suddenly a test lock. Liam Messam was the starting No8, Adam Thomson the openside and Mils Muliaina the captain.
And Stephen Donald was shoved on to the stage as the starting first-five and told to try on a pair of boots about 20 sizes too big.
It made for a delicate situation and as the new men struggled, their coaches grappled with the game's laws and a South African side at the top of their game.
It's no guarantee of World Cup success to be team of the year two years out.
Henry knows looking back won't help New Zealand end their World Cup drought.
Adversity often builds character.
It cruelly claims its victims, but it also sorts the wheat from the chaff.
Think Kieran Read and Cory Jane for the former. Throw Thomson and Tom Donnelly into the mix too and hand Owen Franks a voucher.
A pat on the back to the three wise men for adapting to the new laws and forging ahead, their efforts rewarded in Marseille.
The most glaring failure of 2009 is the failure to develop creditable backups to Carter and McCaw.
It is like watching a train wreck approach. World Cup knockout match, one or both injured, tournament over.
In 2005, Henry toured the north with two teams worth of players that were the envy of world rugby.
Five years later he did not have that luxury. The reality is that if Henry doesn't test his next tier they will fall further behind their peers and further down towards their international rivals.
The challenge now for the All Blacks is twofold.
They must maintain the standards set in Marseille and they must find some insurance policies for Carter and McCaw.
End of year stock take:
Fullback A
Mils Muliaina is back to his best. Cory Jane's a more than worthy backup. Ben Smith has come on albeit on the wing. Israel Dagg is nipping at their heels.
Wings B +
Sitiveni Sivivatu was brilliant, Jane not far behind. Zac Guildford has potential and Smith had his moments. Hosea Gear was unlucky, Sean Maitland looks the goods.
Midfield B +
Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith continue to improve. Luke McAlister is heading in the right direction and Tamati Ellison made strides in Europe. Richard Kahui and Isaia Toeava await their chance.
Five eighths C
Still no backup to Dan Carter. Stephen Donald's on thin ice. Mike Delany's yet to convince. Aaron Cruden is on everyone's lips. Does Stephen Brett have what it takes?
Halfbacks B-
Jimmy Cowan is entrenched, but not complete. Andy Ellis is a competitor. Brendon Leonard almost disappeared but finished with a bang. Piri Weepu and Alby Mathewson stayed home.
No 8 B
Kieran Read has come on in leaps and bounds.
The position is his to lose. Rodney So'oialo remains a good bad backup and Richie McCaw provides legitimate cover too.
Could Sione Lauaki rise again?
Blindside B
Liam Messam is still too light for test rugby. Adam Thomson and Jerome Kaino provide a nice balance of styles. Read can play six too.
Openside C+
Richie McCaw, then daylight. Tanerau Latimer holds his own, but only just at test level. Karl Lowe still appeals.
Lock A
What a turnaround. Tom Donnelly has established himself at test level, Anthony Boric looks promising, Ali Williams will be back and Brad Thorn is keen to go through till the World Cup. Isaac Ross only just gets a mention and there's a guy called Bryn Evans too.
Props B-
Wyatt Crockett's a mixed bag. John Afoa's there or thereabouts. Neemia Tialata's back. Tony Woodcock was quiet. Owen Franks is a comer. Carl Hayman would fit in nicely.
Hooker B
Andrew Hore is streets ahead. Corey Flynn's solid, but still injury prone. Aled de Malmanche must learn to throw to the lineout. Hika Elliott's lurking and Keven Mealamu is sure to return.
NZRU announces new competition structure
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/provincial/3173109/NZRU-announces-new-competition-structure
NZPA
17/12/2009
A new competition structure of 14 premier provincial unions was unveiled today as part of the proposed new agreement between the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and the Players' Association.
Next year will feature a full 14-team round robin with semifinals and a final, the same format as 2009. But in 2011, a new structure will see the 14 teams split into two divisions of seven, based on their on-field finishing positions in 2010.
The top seven teams will form the Premiership and the bottom seven teams the Championship. Teams will play all other teams in their division plus four other teams from the other division.
The NZRU said there would be an "innovative" new process for teams to select their cross-division opponents, with the detail to be finalised in the first quarter next year.
The winner of the Championship will receive automatic promotion to the Premiership, replacing the seventh placed team in the Premiership, which will be relegated to the Championship.
In 2011, due to New Zealand hosting the rugby World Cup, the competition window will be restricted to eight weeks. As a result, in 2011 only, there will be three mid-week matches and no semifinals.
From 2012, the competition will begin two weeks after the conclusion of the new expanded Super Rugby in mid-August and be played over 12 weeks. This will see the introduction of semifinals and no mid week matches.
NZPA
17/12/2009
A new competition structure of 14 premier provincial unions was unveiled today as part of the proposed new agreement between the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and the Players' Association.
Next year will feature a full 14-team round robin with semifinals and a final, the same format as 2009. But in 2011, a new structure will see the 14 teams split into two divisions of seven, based on their on-field finishing positions in 2010.
The top seven teams will form the Premiership and the bottom seven teams the Championship. Teams will play all other teams in their division plus four other teams from the other division.
The NZRU said there would be an "innovative" new process for teams to select their cross-division opponents, with the detail to be finalised in the first quarter next year.
The winner of the Championship will receive automatic promotion to the Premiership, replacing the seventh placed team in the Premiership, which will be relegated to the Championship.
In 2011, due to New Zealand hosting the rugby World Cup, the competition window will be restricted to eight weeks. As a result, in 2011 only, there will be three mid-week matches and no semifinals.
From 2012, the competition will begin two weeks after the conclusion of the new expanded Super Rugby in mid-August and be played over 12 weeks. This will see the introduction of semifinals and no mid week matches.
Richie McCaw wins Kelvin R Tremain player of the year
http://www.allblacks.com/news/11855/Richie-McCaw-wins-Kelvin-R-Tremain-player-of-the-year
NZPA - (17/12/2009)
http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/mccaw-leads-captains-sweep-rugby-awards-3313626/video
Outstanding leadership was recognised when six captains were among the winners at New Zealand's premier rugby awards in Auckland tonight.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw became the first person to be named the Kelvin R Tremain Memorial player of the year for a third time, having previously won the award in 2003 and 2006.
This accolade follows his recent naming as the 2009 International Rugby Board player of the year, making him the first person to win that award twice.
Mils Muliaina, who deputised for McCaw in his early season absence and also led the Chiefs, was named the Super 14 player of the year.
Auckland and New Zealand women's captain Victoria Heighway was named the women's player of the year; Manawatu's New Zealand under-20 captain Aaron Cruden picked up the age grade player of the year title; and Zar Lawrence, who filled in as the New Zealand sevens captain, won the Richard Crawshaw Memorial sevens player of the year.
The Steinlager Salver, a special presentation to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby, was presented to former All Blacks captain DJ Graham.
After his debut in 1958, Graham played 53 matches for his country, including 22 tests, and after retiring went on to an outstanding administrative career, serving as the Auckland Rugby Union's president as well as New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) vice-president and president.
The Tom French Memorial Maori player of the year award went to exciting wing Zac Guildford; Bryce Lawrence made it two in a row as the referee of the year; and Otago's Blair Crawford became the inaugural winner of the renamed Charles Monro volunteer of the year award for his services to community rugby.
Award winners:
Age grade player of the year: Aaron Cruden (Manawatu).
Richard Crawshaw Memorial sevens player of the year: Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty).
Referee of the year: Bryce Lawrence (Bay of Plenty).
Women's player of the year: Victoria Heighway (Auckland).
Charles Monro Rugby volunteer of the year: Blair Crawford (Otago).
Super 14 player of the year: Mils Muliaina (Chiefs).
Tom French Memorial Maori player of the year: Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay).
Heartland Championship player of the year: Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Wanganui).
Air NZ Cup player of the year: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty).
Team of the year: Canterbury.
Coach of the year: Dave Rennie (New Zealand under-20, Manawatu).
Outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby: DJ Graham.
Kelvin R Tremain Memorial player of the year: Richie McCaw.
NZPA - (17/12/2009)
http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/mccaw-leads-captains-sweep-rugby-awards-3313626/video
Outstanding leadership was recognised when six captains were among the winners at New Zealand's premier rugby awards in Auckland tonight.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw became the first person to be named the Kelvin R Tremain Memorial player of the year for a third time, having previously won the award in 2003 and 2006.
This accolade follows his recent naming as the 2009 International Rugby Board player of the year, making him the first person to win that award twice.
Mils Muliaina, who deputised for McCaw in his early season absence and also led the Chiefs, was named the Super 14 player of the year.
Auckland and New Zealand women's captain Victoria Heighway was named the women's player of the year; Manawatu's New Zealand under-20 captain Aaron Cruden picked up the age grade player of the year title; and Zar Lawrence, who filled in as the New Zealand sevens captain, won the Richard Crawshaw Memorial sevens player of the year.
The Steinlager Salver, a special presentation to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby, was presented to former All Blacks captain DJ Graham.
After his debut in 1958, Graham played 53 matches for his country, including 22 tests, and after retiring went on to an outstanding administrative career, serving as the Auckland Rugby Union's president as well as New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) vice-president and president.
The Tom French Memorial Maori player of the year award went to exciting wing Zac Guildford; Bryce Lawrence made it two in a row as the referee of the year; and Otago's Blair Crawford became the inaugural winner of the renamed Charles Monro volunteer of the year award for his services to community rugby.
Award winners:
Age grade player of the year: Aaron Cruden (Manawatu).
Richard Crawshaw Memorial sevens player of the year: Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty).
Referee of the year: Bryce Lawrence (Bay of Plenty).
Women's player of the year: Victoria Heighway (Auckland).
Charles Monro Rugby volunteer of the year: Blair Crawford (Otago).
Super 14 player of the year: Mils Muliaina (Chiefs).
Tom French Memorial Maori player of the year: Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay).
Heartland Championship player of the year: Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Wanganui).
Air NZ Cup player of the year: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty).
Team of the year: Canterbury.
Coach of the year: Dave Rennie (New Zealand under-20, Manawatu).
Outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby: DJ Graham.
Kelvin R Tremain Memorial player of the year: Richie McCaw.
Dear Santa...
For those who haven't written yet to the Man in Red, here's an idea...
Product Description
Richie McCaw's standing within the All Blacks team is unmatched. The captain of Graham Henry's team since 2006, McCaw has carved a niche for himself as the modern-day great within the All Blacks - the charismatic, never-say-die leader whom fans of the Men in Black have come to hold in the same light as many of the most revered captains of yesteryear. Richie McCaw: A Tribute to a Modern-day Rugby Great charts the career of the proud Canterbury and Crusaders star who first burst into the national rugby conscience in 2001 when he helped his province to an NPC championship. Soon after, he was making his All Blacks debut in Dublin, beginning a test career that will ultimately culminate at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand. Author John Matheson tells the story of how the understated McCaw has reinvented himself to emerge as the talisman for his charges in the same way that Buck Shelford, Sean Fitzpatrick and Tana Umaga have done before him. Interviews with teammates, coaches and opponents will help the reader gain a renewed respect for McCaw, as the All Blacks plan their next assault on the Rugby World Cup. Richie McCaw: A Tribute to a Modern-day Rugby Great takes the reader inside McCaw's inner circle to tell his story of Tri-Nations, Bledisloe Cup and Grand Slam success, overcoming shattering injuries and concussions, and World Cup heartbreaks in Sydney and Cardiff. Tellingly, though, McCaw - who was at the All Blacks helm for the Cardiff calamity - never lost the respect of the public following the 2007 World Cup. Indeed, the way he handled the aftermath only strengthened his standing with the All Blacks nation. Richie McCaw: A Tribute to a Modern-day Rugby Great plots his post-World Cup rehabilitation and celebrates the fact that, as the 2011 event nears, the All Blacks - on-field at least - are in the best possible hands as they set about replicating the efforts of David Kirk's 1987 All Blacks.
About the Author
John Matheson has penned 15 books, including bestsellers on Christian Cullen, Tana Umaga and Buck Shelford. He has worked for the Auckland Star and Sunday Star and was the former editor of the Qantas-award-winning Sunday News, and is the longest-serving editor of NZ Rugby World.
Picture by me!!!
Comments found on http://www.amazon.co.uk/Richie-Mccaw-Celebrity-Portraits-Matheson/dp/1869508068
Monday, December 14, 2009
2009 Last request
Like every year, let's launch our common card!
You have another 2 weeks to send your thoughts about the 2009 season and upcoming 2010 season.
It's an open article and everybody will be published :)
You have another 2 weeks to send your thoughts about the 2009 season and upcoming 2010 season.
It's an open article and everybody will be published :)
Title : "2009 Last request"
Friday, December 11, 2009
Kaitlyn meets her hero
http://www.times.co.nz/cms/front_page_feature/2009/12/kaitlyn_meets_her_hero.php
When the five-year-old met her hero Richie McCaw for the first time, she made her dad a tad uncomfortable when she asked why the All Blacks captain couldn’t go home with them.
That was after the International Rugby Board player of the year reached down and scooped up Kaitlyn when he spotted she was getting pushed around a bit by “somewhat larger fans”.
“It was very exciting to meet Richie because he is my favourite player,” says Kaitlyn, who was a bit star-struck when she met him at a computer software launch in Auckland’s CBD.
She describes him as “the best player in the whole world” and was over the moon to have her photo taken with him.
“I had to get up early in the morning to meet him,” she says.
“He was very friendly and I gave him a big cuddle. I didn’t talk to him. I just wanted to cuddle him.”
“Richie is one of the nice guys,” says her dad Tait Grindley, a born-and-bred Cantabrian who lives in Golflands with his fiancée Kristin.
Kaitlyn, who attends Botany Downs Primary School, has been watching the Crusaders, the Blues and the All Blacks since she was two. She knows all the players by name, including most of the present ABs.
But “her absolute hero is the Crusaders’ number seven”, says Mr Grindley.
A lot of people were milling around at the event but “Richie just let her sit with him for a while and carried on talking to me”.
“She just smiled from ear to ear and put her head on his shoulder,” he says. “What a guy and an awesome experience for a little girl who just loved seeing him and giving him a big cuddle.
“It took a while to get her to let go of him and I could only laugh somewhat uncomfortably when she asked why Richie couldn’t come home with us.”
Kristin says Kaitlyn loved going to Crusaders games – “good and cheap family entertainment” – before they moved to Auckland from Canterbury, and is glued to the television for matches McCaw is playing in.
Friday, 11 December 2009
By MARIANNE KELLY
By MARIANNE KELLY
Howick and Pakuranga Times
LITTLE Kaitlyn Jacob knows an All Black when she sees one, and she’s not averse to trying to kidnap one when she gets the opportunity.
When the five-year-old met her hero Richie McCaw for the first time, she made her dad a tad uncomfortable when she asked why the All Blacks captain couldn’t go home with them.
That was after the International Rugby Board player of the year reached down and scooped up Kaitlyn when he spotted she was getting pushed around a bit by “somewhat larger fans”.
“It was very exciting to meet Richie because he is my favourite player,” says Kaitlyn, who was a bit star-struck when she met him at a computer software launch in Auckland’s CBD.
She describes him as “the best player in the whole world” and was over the moon to have her photo taken with him.
“I had to get up early in the morning to meet him,” she says.
“He was very friendly and I gave him a big cuddle. I didn’t talk to him. I just wanted to cuddle him.”
“Richie is one of the nice guys,” says her dad Tait Grindley, a born-and-bred Cantabrian who lives in Golflands with his fiancée Kristin.
Kaitlyn, who attends Botany Downs Primary School, has been watching the Crusaders, the Blues and the All Blacks since she was two. She knows all the players by name, including most of the present ABs.
But “her absolute hero is the Crusaders’ number seven”, says Mr Grindley.
A lot of people were milling around at the event but “Richie just let her sit with him for a while and carried on talking to me”.
“She just smiled from ear to ear and put her head on his shoulder,” he says. “What a guy and an awesome experience for a little girl who just loved seeing him and giving him a big cuddle.
“It took a while to get her to let go of him and I could only laugh somewhat uncomfortably when she asked why Richie couldn’t come home with us.”
Kristin says Kaitlyn loved going to Crusaders games – “good and cheap family entertainment” – before they moved to Auckland from Canterbury, and is glued to the television for matches McCaw is playing in.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Holiday blog : Videos (Marseille)
Videos (Marseille) : coz the Richie Girls are everywhere....
Just click on "videos (marseille)" above
Just click on "videos (marseille)" above
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Barbarians upset All Blacks
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/sport/3130592/Barbarians-upset-All-Blacks
Second-string side caught short
TOBY ROBSON at Twickenham - Stuff.co.nz
06/12/2009
Bryan Habana's brilliant hattrick gave the Barbarians an historic 25-18 win over the All Blacks and brought the tourists end of year tour to a disappointing end.
It was only the second time the famous invitation side had beaten the All Blacks, coming 36 years after the 1973 side's famous win at Cardiff Arms Park.
The loss leaves the All Blacks with a season record of ten wins and five losses, sadly blighting a bright finish to the season that saw them win six tests in succession.
In front of 63,551 fans the Barbarians, made up largely of South African and Australian players matched the All Blacks in every area with Habana's blistering pace the difference in an entertaining match.
There was an eerie de ja vu about replacement first five Morne Steyn's late penalty as the Springbok players in the side celebrated their fourth win over New Zealand this year.
The All Blacks will be disappointed they conceded two soft first half tries, which both saw Habana sprinting away from the defence.
The match highlighted the difference between the All Blacks first string players and the next tier and in particular at first five where Stephen Donald had a poor first half.
Donald threw the crucial intercept that saw Habana sprint 80 metres on the stroke of halftime to put his side up 14-10 at the break in what was a crucial boost to their confidence.
Midfielders Jaque Fourie and Jamie Roberts were a constant danger in a match that was as entertaining as it was close with Barbarians coach Nick Matllett's star-studded cast throwing the ball wide at every chance.
The All Blacks coaches had taken a punt in leaving out Dan Carter and when they subbed Richie McCaw early in the second half the Barbarians loose duo of Schalk Burger and George Smith thrived.
Habana was brilliant in every respect. His first try came after fullback Drew Mitchell pinched the ball from an unattended All Black ruck and fed his flying wing for a 90 metre crowd pleaser.
Habana's third try on 69 minutes came after he had earlier been knocked out saving a try at the other end tackling All Blacks halfback Brendon Leonard.
Leonard was one of the few players to boost his tour grade with a sharp effort that finally saw his sniping running game unleashed.
But overall it was an unorganised display from the All Blacks, who ended the match with Sitiveni Sivivatu at centre and flanker Liam Messam on the wing for an injured Zac Guildford for the final 18 minutes.
The tourist's scored two tries of their own, wing Ben Smith getting his first try in a black jersey after 24 minutes after Luke McAlister had split the midfield defence. Tamati Ellison, who played well but didn't emerge after halftime, drew in two defenders on the blindside and Cory Jane sucked in Mitchell to put his wing over.
Lock Anthony Boric capped a strong match when he scored with 20 mintues to play and a comeback was on the cards, but Delany missed the conversion.Habana got his third, Steyn cancelled out a Delany penalty and the All Blacks faltered at the finish line after seven weeks on the road.
All Blacks 18 (Ben Smith, Anthony Boric, tries, Stephen Donald pen, con. Mike Delany pen)
Barbarians 25 (Bryan Habana 3 tries, Matt Giteau 2 con, pen, Morne Steyn pen).
Halftime: 14-10 Barbarians
Second-string side caught short
TOBY ROBSON at Twickenham - Stuff.co.nz
06/12/2009
Bryan Habana's brilliant hattrick gave the Barbarians an historic 25-18 win over the All Blacks and brought the tourists end of year tour to a disappointing end.
It was only the second time the famous invitation side had beaten the All Blacks, coming 36 years after the 1973 side's famous win at Cardiff Arms Park.
The loss leaves the All Blacks with a season record of ten wins and five losses, sadly blighting a bright finish to the season that saw them win six tests in succession.
In front of 63,551 fans the Barbarians, made up largely of South African and Australian players matched the All Blacks in every area with Habana's blistering pace the difference in an entertaining match.
There was an eerie de ja vu about replacement first five Morne Steyn's late penalty as the Springbok players in the side celebrated their fourth win over New Zealand this year.
The All Blacks will be disappointed they conceded two soft first half tries, which both saw Habana sprinting away from the defence.
The match highlighted the difference between the All Blacks first string players and the next tier and in particular at first five where Stephen Donald had a poor first half.
Donald threw the crucial intercept that saw Habana sprint 80 metres on the stroke of halftime to put his side up 14-10 at the break in what was a crucial boost to their confidence.
Midfielders Jaque Fourie and Jamie Roberts were a constant danger in a match that was as entertaining as it was close with Barbarians coach Nick Matllett's star-studded cast throwing the ball wide at every chance.
The All Blacks coaches had taken a punt in leaving out Dan Carter and when they subbed Richie McCaw early in the second half the Barbarians loose duo of Schalk Burger and George Smith thrived.
Habana was brilliant in every respect. His first try came after fullback Drew Mitchell pinched the ball from an unattended All Black ruck and fed his flying wing for a 90 metre crowd pleaser.
Habana's third try on 69 minutes came after he had earlier been knocked out saving a try at the other end tackling All Blacks halfback Brendon Leonard.
Leonard was one of the few players to boost his tour grade with a sharp effort that finally saw his sniping running game unleashed.
But overall it was an unorganised display from the All Blacks, who ended the match with Sitiveni Sivivatu at centre and flanker Liam Messam on the wing for an injured Zac Guildford for the final 18 minutes.
The tourist's scored two tries of their own, wing Ben Smith getting his first try in a black jersey after 24 minutes after Luke McAlister had split the midfield defence. Tamati Ellison, who played well but didn't emerge after halftime, drew in two defenders on the blindside and Cory Jane sucked in Mitchell to put his wing over.
Lock Anthony Boric capped a strong match when he scored with 20 mintues to play and a comeback was on the cards, but Delany missed the conversion.Habana got his third, Steyn cancelled out a Delany penalty and the All Blacks faltered at the finish line after seven weeks on the road.
All Blacks 18 (Ben Smith, Anthony Boric, tries, Stephen Donald pen, con. Mike Delany pen)
Barbarians 25 (Bryan Habana 3 tries, Matt Giteau 2 con, pen, Morne Steyn pen).
Halftime: 14-10 Barbarians
McCaw looking big picture after Baabaas loss
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3131027/McCaw-looking-big-picture-after-Baabaas-loss
By MARK GEENTY - NZPA
06/12/2009
Captain Richie McCaw insists the shock 18-25 defeat to the Barbarians hasn't taken the gloss off a successful All Blacks rugby tour.
The Nick Mallett-coached Barbarians celebrated wildly at the final whistle at Twickenham, high-fiving and embracing after the invitation side secured just their second win over the All Blacks - 36 years since their famous Cardiff Arms Park victory.
Flying Springbok Bryan Habana's hat-trick was the difference as the South Africa/Australia dominated side scored three tries to two and had a clear edge in experience against the second-string All Blacks.
It robbed the All Blacks of an unbeaten finish to their six-match tour and saw them end 2009 with a 10 win, five loss record.McCaw, who led the side but was subbed at halftime to allow Tanerau Latimer his chance at openside flanker, said it was a glum mood in the sheds but the bigger picture was more important.
"Sitting here straight after the game it is a bit disappointing, but once we get back and reflect, there's been a lot of good things happen," McCaw said."In the tests, which are the most important, we built pretty well over those five tests and last week (the 39-12 win over France), the things we did there were pretty good."
After seven weeks on the road, McCaw said the players would be happy the tour was over and they could have a well-earned summer break.
The match was tagged to the end of their tour as a revenue-gatherer for the New Zealand Rugby Union, but was also a chance for fringe players to have one final say.
It drew 63,551 spectators to Twickenham, and afterwards the official merchandise shop was innundated as huge crowds queued in the drizzle to purchase their Barbarians souvenirs.
Coach Graham Henry said the players were looking forward to tomorrow's plane trip home but had definitely been up for the match.
"The guys prepared well and they were against high-quality players who are leaders in their particular national side," Henry said."That lack of experience probably told a wee bit and they'll be better players for that."
The coach said some players had taken their chances and others missed an opportunity as the All Blacks dominated the first half but trailed 10-14 at the break.Halfback Brendon Leonard had his best game in a frustrating year in the black jersey and played much of the second half with a broken nose, while second five-eighth Luke McAlister and tryscoring lock Anthony Boric also finished their tours strongly.
First five-eighth Stephen Donald offered a mixed bag and was unlucky to throw the intercept pass which saw Habana score his second try on the stroke of halftime. Replacement Mike Delany also found it tough to impose himself in the second half.
Tamati Ellison and Zac Guildford both departed with hamstring strains, which saw flanker Liam Messam posted to the wing.
The Barbarians were a tough outfit, with Victor Matfield leading the way and the loose trio of Schalk Burger and Wallabies George Smith and Rocky Elsom a handful.
The midfield of Jamie Roberts and Jaque Fourie found holes while Wallabies five-eighth Matt Giteau laid on Habana's crucial third try with 11 minutes left.
Said a proud coach Mallett:
"Once they put their mind to it, they looked like a test side that had played together for a couple of months. It was absolutely incredible and I was so proud of the way the guys defended, because that more than anything else shows the character of a team.
"It felt to me like a test team going out to play a test match. It's just fantastic to beat the All Blacks.
"There are some South African players who've beaten the All Blacks four times this year and I don't think that's happened all that often. A lot of history was made today."
By MARK GEENTY - NZPA
06/12/2009
Captain Richie McCaw insists the shock 18-25 defeat to the Barbarians hasn't taken the gloss off a successful All Blacks rugby tour.
The Nick Mallett-coached Barbarians celebrated wildly at the final whistle at Twickenham, high-fiving and embracing after the invitation side secured just their second win over the All Blacks - 36 years since their famous Cardiff Arms Park victory.
Flying Springbok Bryan Habana's hat-trick was the difference as the South Africa/Australia dominated side scored three tries to two and had a clear edge in experience against the second-string All Blacks.
It robbed the All Blacks of an unbeaten finish to their six-match tour and saw them end 2009 with a 10 win, five loss record.McCaw, who led the side but was subbed at halftime to allow Tanerau Latimer his chance at openside flanker, said it was a glum mood in the sheds but the bigger picture was more important.
"Sitting here straight after the game it is a bit disappointing, but once we get back and reflect, there's been a lot of good things happen," McCaw said."In the tests, which are the most important, we built pretty well over those five tests and last week (the 39-12 win over France), the things we did there were pretty good."
After seven weeks on the road, McCaw said the players would be happy the tour was over and they could have a well-earned summer break.
The match was tagged to the end of their tour as a revenue-gatherer for the New Zealand Rugby Union, but was also a chance for fringe players to have one final say.
It drew 63,551 spectators to Twickenham, and afterwards the official merchandise shop was innundated as huge crowds queued in the drizzle to purchase their Barbarians souvenirs.
Coach Graham Henry said the players were looking forward to tomorrow's plane trip home but had definitely been up for the match.
"The guys prepared well and they were against high-quality players who are leaders in their particular national side," Henry said."That lack of experience probably told a wee bit and they'll be better players for that."
The coach said some players had taken their chances and others missed an opportunity as the All Blacks dominated the first half but trailed 10-14 at the break.Halfback Brendon Leonard had his best game in a frustrating year in the black jersey and played much of the second half with a broken nose, while second five-eighth Luke McAlister and tryscoring lock Anthony Boric also finished their tours strongly.
First five-eighth Stephen Donald offered a mixed bag and was unlucky to throw the intercept pass which saw Habana score his second try on the stroke of halftime. Replacement Mike Delany also found it tough to impose himself in the second half.
Tamati Ellison and Zac Guildford both departed with hamstring strains, which saw flanker Liam Messam posted to the wing.
The Barbarians were a tough outfit, with Victor Matfield leading the way and the loose trio of Schalk Burger and Wallabies George Smith and Rocky Elsom a handful.
The midfield of Jamie Roberts and Jaque Fourie found holes while Wallabies five-eighth Matt Giteau laid on Habana's crucial third try with 11 minutes left.
Said a proud coach Mallett:
"Once they put their mind to it, they looked like a test side that had played together for a couple of months. It was absolutely incredible and I was so proud of the way the guys defended, because that more than anything else shows the character of a team.
"It felt to me like a test team going out to play a test match. It's just fantastic to beat the All Blacks.
"There are some South African players who've beaten the All Blacks four times this year and I don't think that's happened all that often. A lot of history was made today."
Friday, December 04, 2009
All-Blacks-vie-for-top-rugby-award
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/news/3128288/All-Blacks-vie-for-top-rugby-award
NZPA
04/12/2009
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, star first five-eighth Dan Carter and Taranaki hooker Andrew Hore were today named as nominees for the rugby player of the year award.
The women's player of the year nominees are Kelly Brazier and Carla Hohepa, both of Otago, and Auckland's Victoria Heighway.
The awards. to be named in Auckland on December 17, will be judged by former All Blacks captains Andy Leslie and Graham Mourie, rugby commentator Grant Nisbett and former All Black Brent Anderson.
The nominees are:
NZRU age grade player of the year: Sam Cane (Bay of Plenty), Aaron Cruden (Manawatu), Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay), Winston Stanley (Auckland).
Richard Crawshaw Memorial sevens player of the year: Carla Hohepa (Otago), Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty), Julian Savea (Wellington).
NZRU women's player of the year: Kelly Brazier, Victoria Heighway, Carla Hohepa.
The Charles Monro rugby volunteer of the year: Blair Crawford (Otago), David Hickey (Auckland), Peter Te Tai (Southland).
Super 14 player of the year: Aled de Malmanche (Chiefs), Malili (Mils) Muliaina (Chiefs),Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes).
Tom French Memorial Maori player of the year: Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay, Ngati Kahungunu),Cory Jane (Wellington, Ngati Kahungunu), Isaac Ross (Canterbury, Kai Tahu).
Heartland Championship player of the year: Jon Dampney (Mid Canterbury), Sione Ngatu (Poverty Bay), Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Wanganui).
Air NZ Cup player of the year: Josh Bekhuis (Southland), Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty), Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay).
Team of the Year: Canterbury (Air New Zealand Cup), New Zealand under-20, Wanganui (Heartland Championship).
New Zealand rugby coach of the year: Ian Foster (Chiefs), Guy Lennox (Wanganui), Rob Penney (Canterbury), Dave Rennie (New Zealand under-20).
NZRU referee of the year: winner named on the night
Kelvin R Tremain Memorial player of the year: Daniel Carter, Andrew Hore, Richie McCaw.
Steinlager Salver for an outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby recipient: named on the night.
NZPA
04/12/2009
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, star first five-eighth Dan Carter and Taranaki hooker Andrew Hore were today named as nominees for the rugby player of the year award.
The women's player of the year nominees are Kelly Brazier and Carla Hohepa, both of Otago, and Auckland's Victoria Heighway.
The awards. to be named in Auckland on December 17, will be judged by former All Blacks captains Andy Leslie and Graham Mourie, rugby commentator Grant Nisbett and former All Black Brent Anderson.
The nominees are:
NZRU age grade player of the year: Sam Cane (Bay of Plenty), Aaron Cruden (Manawatu), Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay), Winston Stanley (Auckland).
Richard Crawshaw Memorial sevens player of the year: Carla Hohepa (Otago), Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty), Julian Savea (Wellington).
NZRU women's player of the year: Kelly Brazier, Victoria Heighway, Carla Hohepa.
The Charles Monro rugby volunteer of the year: Blair Crawford (Otago), David Hickey (Auckland), Peter Te Tai (Southland).
Super 14 player of the year: Aled de Malmanche (Chiefs), Malili (Mils) Muliaina (Chiefs),Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes).
Tom French Memorial Maori player of the year: Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay, Ngati Kahungunu),Cory Jane (Wellington, Ngati Kahungunu), Isaac Ross (Canterbury, Kai Tahu).
Heartland Championship player of the year: Jon Dampney (Mid Canterbury), Sione Ngatu (Poverty Bay), Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Wanganui).
Air NZ Cup player of the year: Josh Bekhuis (Southland), Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty), Zac Guildford (Hawke's Bay).
Team of the Year: Canterbury (Air New Zealand Cup), New Zealand under-20, Wanganui (Heartland Championship).
New Zealand rugby coach of the year: Ian Foster (Chiefs), Guy Lennox (Wanganui), Rob Penney (Canterbury), Dave Rennie (New Zealand under-20).
NZRU referee of the year: winner named on the night
Kelvin R Tremain Memorial player of the year: Daniel Carter, Andrew Hore, Richie McCaw.
Steinlager Salver for an outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby recipient: named on the night.
Richie McCaw on life in the tabloids
He has just been voted the best rugby player in the world for the second year running. Close Up talks to Richie McCaw.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/video/
no direct link for now, looking for it & will add it when founded ;)
http://tvnz.co.nz/close-up/richie-mccaw-voted-world-s-best-player-3228946/video?vid=3228969
Richie McCaw voted world's best player
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/video/
no direct link for now, looking for it & will add it when founded ;)
http://tvnz.co.nz/close-up/richie-mccaw-voted-world-s-best-player-3228946/video?vid=3228969
Richie McCaw voted world's best player
McCaw-It-d-be-nice-to-keep-a-clean-slate
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3129645/McCaw-It-d-be-nice-to-keep-a-clean-slate
By TOBY ROBSON in London - Stuff.co.nz
05/12/2009
It may be billed as a festival match, but if the All Blacks have it their way the star studded Barbarians won't be thrilling the Twickenham crowd with tries.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw was happy to play the Christmas Grinch today when asked if s try-fest would be a fitting result for the festival match.
"No, I'd rather we were scoring the tries. If we score plenty it will be entertaining I reckon," he said.
"That's [defence] one of the things we've had pride in this year. We don't go in there thinking we must not let them score, but the attitude is set with the defence, so it would be nice to stop them scoring."
The All Blacks have conceded just two tries on northern soil since 2006, both coming in the 2007 World Cup quarterfinal loss to France in Cardiff.
The last try scored against them on a northern tour was Wales' flanker Martyn Williams' five pointer in 2006.
McCaw clearly wants to keep it that way.
"We'll wait and see, but it'd be nice to keep a clean slate."
The All Blacks will be doing well to keep their line in tact against a team containing many of the world's best attacking players.
The loose trio of No 8 George Smith, openside Schalk Burger and blindside Rocky Elsom is sure to create plenty of continuity for the cast of stars in the backs.
Halfback Fourie du Preez will feed a backline of Matt Giteau, Jamie Roberts, Jaque Fourie, Bryan Habana, Joe Rokococko and Drew Mitchell.
McCaw said the key for the All Blacks was to stay within their structure and not get sucked in to a Barbarian style of play.
"There will be a wee bit of pressure early. You have to get the set piece right... I think as a team they will be prepared to chuck the ball about.
"Having a bit of structure, that stops them from having that ability. If you stop them throwing it around at the start then it makes it hard for them to get on top, so I guess that's how we will approach it."
McCaw, who played for the Barbarians last season, said it was wrong to think the Barbarians players did not take the match seriously.
"You might have a bit of laugh and a joke, perhaps that you might not have in the changing room before a test match, but certainly you are on the job.
"To be honest it's a little bit different, but all these guys are experienced internationals. They know what they need to do to get ready to play.
"It is relaxed, but you see the guys when it comes round to game time they make sure they have it sorted.
"If you go out there expecting it to be easy, well it's certainly not like that. That was how I approached it. I made sure I did [prepare well]."
For the All Blacks, McCaw said it was a chance to ensure the good impression made on the game in Marseille last weekend was not lost in a lack lustre final hit out.
"Come game time the guys will be focused. Each week is a bit different, but you know when the guys are switched on.
"I've seen by the way they've trained this week they are pretty keen to play. I guess for the guys who played the test [last week], a lot of them are in the reserves or whatever they have to make sure they do it right.
"You want to give them [the starting team] the best chance, so I'm sure it will be just like normal build up."
The All Blacks and Barbarians have played nine times since 1954 with just one win and a draw to the invitation side.
The upset came in 1973 when Welsh halfback Gareth Edwards scored what is regarded as one of the best tries of all time in the 23-11 win.
Last time the team's met was in 2004 when the All Blacks won 47-19.
By TOBY ROBSON in London - Stuff.co.nz
05/12/2009
It may be billed as a festival match, but if the All Blacks have it their way the star studded Barbarians won't be thrilling the Twickenham crowd with tries.
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw was happy to play the Christmas Grinch today when asked if s try-fest would be a fitting result for the festival match.
"No, I'd rather we were scoring the tries. If we score plenty it will be entertaining I reckon," he said.
"That's [defence] one of the things we've had pride in this year. We don't go in there thinking we must not let them score, but the attitude is set with the defence, so it would be nice to stop them scoring."
The All Blacks have conceded just two tries on northern soil since 2006, both coming in the 2007 World Cup quarterfinal loss to France in Cardiff.
The last try scored against them on a northern tour was Wales' flanker Martyn Williams' five pointer in 2006.
McCaw clearly wants to keep it that way.
"We'll wait and see, but it'd be nice to keep a clean slate."
The All Blacks will be doing well to keep their line in tact against a team containing many of the world's best attacking players.
The loose trio of No 8 George Smith, openside Schalk Burger and blindside Rocky Elsom is sure to create plenty of continuity for the cast of stars in the backs.
Halfback Fourie du Preez will feed a backline of Matt Giteau, Jamie Roberts, Jaque Fourie, Bryan Habana, Joe Rokococko and Drew Mitchell.
McCaw said the key for the All Blacks was to stay within their structure and not get sucked in to a Barbarian style of play.
"There will be a wee bit of pressure early. You have to get the set piece right... I think as a team they will be prepared to chuck the ball about.
"Having a bit of structure, that stops them from having that ability. If you stop them throwing it around at the start then it makes it hard for them to get on top, so I guess that's how we will approach it."
McCaw, who played for the Barbarians last season, said it was wrong to think the Barbarians players did not take the match seriously.
"You might have a bit of laugh and a joke, perhaps that you might not have in the changing room before a test match, but certainly you are on the job.
"To be honest it's a little bit different, but all these guys are experienced internationals. They know what they need to do to get ready to play.
"It is relaxed, but you see the guys when it comes round to game time they make sure they have it sorted.
"If you go out there expecting it to be easy, well it's certainly not like that. That was how I approached it. I made sure I did [prepare well]."
For the All Blacks, McCaw said it was a chance to ensure the good impression made on the game in Marseille last weekend was not lost in a lack lustre final hit out.
"Come game time the guys will be focused. Each week is a bit different, but you know when the guys are switched on.
"I've seen by the way they've trained this week they are pretty keen to play. I guess for the guys who played the test [last week], a lot of them are in the reserves or whatever they have to make sure they do it right.
"You want to give them [the starting team] the best chance, so I'm sure it will be just like normal build up."
The All Blacks and Barbarians have played nine times since 1954 with just one win and a draw to the invitation side.
The upset came in 1973 when Welsh halfback Gareth Edwards scored what is regarded as one of the best tries of all time in the 23-11 win.
Last time the team's met was in 2004 when the All Blacks won 47-19.
Richie McCaw's breakdown break down
http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3123766/Richie-McCaws-breakdown-break-down
By TOBY ROBSON in London - Stuff.co.nz
04/12/2009
School was in today and All Blacks captain Richie McCaw gave a master class on the breakdown.
For the four reporters present it was like a university tutorial from a teacher with a PHD in openside play, with honours.
The way McCaw sees it, the breakdown's just not that complicated.You get there first, grab the ball and hold on for dear life despite your body being subjected to all sorts of unthinkable agony.
If you can do that, he reckons, then you deserve to come away with the ball.
The IRB this week ratified a rule change that says if the first arriving defending player gets his hands on the ball before a ruck is formed, he can legally carry on playing it.
Probably best to let McCaw explain the rest.
"The problem before was it was open to interpretation by the ref. So if you got their first and there was no-none from the other team then it's not a ruck so you can play the ball.
"As soon as someone touches you it's a ruck, so what's was happening is some refs would allow you to keep playing it because you were there first and perhaps should have won it.
"Other refs would say the guy on the ground had released it almost immediately, but had held it just along enough for a ruck to form. So you had a go and didn't win it and the ref said hands off.
"That was where a lot of inconsistencies were, just through the referee's interpretations.
"So what they said was simple. If you are there first and you get your hands on it then you probably should have won it. Even if the ruck forms you don't have to make that judgement, you just carry on playing it."
However, McCaw now believes further clarifications need to be made to ensure players stay clearly on their feet while trying to play the ball.
"It would mean more accuracy. There are guys who sort of lie on the player on the ground and look like they are on their feet. There has to be, I think, a genuine attempt to get the ball while you are on your feet. That would help.
"At least if you know if you are on your feet, you've had a crack and you can carry on going. It rewards good play. If you are there first you get a chance to play."
He believes keeping players on their feet would also allow the attacking team a fair chance of clearing defenders out at the ruck.
"I do it too. You try to get a lot lower, but you can't use someone else's weight to rest on. You get a guy who leans with his hands on the ground.
"If a guy's down there you can't move him. You try and come and try to clean him out it's pretty hard to move him."
If a side is going forward at the contact area, McCaw reckons you should probably be able to win the ball legally.
"The advantage line is a big indicator at the breakdown I believe. If you are going forward, then probably seven out of ten times you should get the ball back and if you haven't there is probably infringing.
"If you get knocked over behind the advantage line then slow ball is going to come from that because your forwards have to come back, so there's more chance of a turnover."
McCaw doesn't profess to have all the answers and is the first to say the referee's job is almost impossible due to the speed of the collision point.
"I don't know the answers either. If you are going to make it a genuine contest there is going to be a bit of interpretation."
McCaw does not think he's ever been picked on by referees and believes his record proves he is no cheat.
"I go through all my games and if I give away more than two penalties at a breakdown I've got it really wrong."
If there's one that's fifty-fifty and one that I got wrong I sort of accept that might be right, but that's about finding the line.
"If you keep doing it [you are stupid]. I've never had that sort of situation. You might get the odd one with three in a game, but that's a bad day for me.
"There's no point arguing with the ref if he's going to get you for something that you think is legal… you might as well make a change."
"I don't think the breakdown is that complicated. What complicates it is it happens so fast bang that's where it becomes hard for the ref.
"The real rules of the breakdown are the tackle player must release and if he gets to his feet he can pick it up from any angle provided there hasn't been a ruck.
"As soon as one player from each team arrive and are joined that's a ruck and there's no hands. If you arrive through the gate from the opposition you can pick the ball up. That's as simple as it is."
By TOBY ROBSON in London - Stuff.co.nz
04/12/2009
School was in today and All Blacks captain Richie McCaw gave a master class on the breakdown.
For the four reporters present it was like a university tutorial from a teacher with a PHD in openside play, with honours.
The way McCaw sees it, the breakdown's just not that complicated.You get there first, grab the ball and hold on for dear life despite your body being subjected to all sorts of unthinkable agony.
If you can do that, he reckons, then you deserve to come away with the ball.
The IRB this week ratified a rule change that says if the first arriving defending player gets his hands on the ball before a ruck is formed, he can legally carry on playing it.
Probably best to let McCaw explain the rest.
"The problem before was it was open to interpretation by the ref. So if you got their first and there was no-none from the other team then it's not a ruck so you can play the ball.
"As soon as someone touches you it's a ruck, so what's was happening is some refs would allow you to keep playing it because you were there first and perhaps should have won it.
"Other refs would say the guy on the ground had released it almost immediately, but had held it just along enough for a ruck to form. So you had a go and didn't win it and the ref said hands off.
"That was where a lot of inconsistencies were, just through the referee's interpretations.
"So what they said was simple. If you are there first and you get your hands on it then you probably should have won it. Even if the ruck forms you don't have to make that judgement, you just carry on playing it."
However, McCaw now believes further clarifications need to be made to ensure players stay clearly on their feet while trying to play the ball.
"It would mean more accuracy. There are guys who sort of lie on the player on the ground and look like they are on their feet. There has to be, I think, a genuine attempt to get the ball while you are on your feet. That would help.
"At least if you know if you are on your feet, you've had a crack and you can carry on going. It rewards good play. If you are there first you get a chance to play."
He believes keeping players on their feet would also allow the attacking team a fair chance of clearing defenders out at the ruck.
"I do it too. You try to get a lot lower, but you can't use someone else's weight to rest on. You get a guy who leans with his hands on the ground.
"If a guy's down there you can't move him. You try and come and try to clean him out it's pretty hard to move him."
If a side is going forward at the contact area, McCaw reckons you should probably be able to win the ball legally.
"The advantage line is a big indicator at the breakdown I believe. If you are going forward, then probably seven out of ten times you should get the ball back and if you haven't there is probably infringing.
"If you get knocked over behind the advantage line then slow ball is going to come from that because your forwards have to come back, so there's more chance of a turnover."
McCaw doesn't profess to have all the answers and is the first to say the referee's job is almost impossible due to the speed of the collision point.
"I don't know the answers either. If you are going to make it a genuine contest there is going to be a bit of interpretation."
McCaw does not think he's ever been picked on by referees and believes his record proves he is no cheat.
"I go through all my games and if I give away more than two penalties at a breakdown I've got it really wrong."
If there's one that's fifty-fifty and one that I got wrong I sort of accept that might be right, but that's about finding the line.
"If you keep doing it [you are stupid]. I've never had that sort of situation. You might get the odd one with three in a game, but that's a bad day for me.
"There's no point arguing with the ref if he's going to get you for something that you think is legal… you might as well make a change."
RICHE'S BREAKDOWN BREAK DOWN
"I don't think the breakdown is that complicated. What complicates it is it happens so fast bang that's where it becomes hard for the ref.
"The real rules of the breakdown are the tackle player must release and if he gets to his feet he can pick it up from any angle provided there hasn't been a ruck.
"As soon as one player from each team arrive and are joined that's a ruck and there's no hands. If you arrive through the gate from the opposition you can pick the ball up. That's as simple as it is."
McCaw looking forward to resting battered body
http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=11786
NZPA - (3/12/2009)
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw says the high of the demolition of France and a relaxed buildup has helped him brace his weary body for one final rugby match here at Twickenham.
Rather than rest alongside fellow frontliners Dan Carter, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Kieran Read and Tony Woodcock, the newly-crowned International Rugby Board (IRB) player of the year will skipper the All Blacks against the Barbarians.
McCaw admitted he was "over rugby" in 2009, more mentally than physically, but said the buzz of their Marseille mayhem last weekend helped keep him going.
"I had a fair idea for a while I'd be playing. We were always going to give other guys a crack, but being captain of the team I'm more than happy to help out," McCaw said."All the guys had a lot of fun last week and you just can't carry on like last week, you've got to get in the game, but if it was as much fun as that it'd be well worth it."
After a night of celebrations in Marseille, McCaw and several teammates visited the adidas factory in Germany then had two quiet days before their first training at a pristine Harrow School.
While his early-season injury meant McCaw played 10 of the All Blacks' 14 tests this year, the mental strain of skippering the side and the rigours of the six weeks on their unbeaten tour was starting to show.
"I'm ready for a break to be honest. Body-wise I'm really good. It's more I've just had enough of rugby for another year, not to much the games but the training and stuff that goes with it.
"That's good about this week, it's not the intensity of a test match so it makes it a little bit easier to get ready, a bit more relaxed."
But while the buildup might be low-key, McCaw knows the Twickenham match will be anything but.
He played for the Barbarians against the Wallabies at Wembley a year ago as they gave the tourists a fright before losing 18-11.
A formidable Barbarians loose trio of Wallabies Rocky Elsom, George Smith and Springbok Schalk Burger will ensure no easy ride for McCaw and fellow loosies Liam Messam and Rodney So'oialo.
"Last year's game was one of the most physical I played on the tour so it's not easy either. The Barbarians boys got stuck into the Wallabies early on. It was close."
Still, the All Blacks, with just McCaw and fullback Cory Jane back from the France test, will try to throw the ball around.
Their ability to do that will depend on gaining the solid forward platform they were able to set in Marseille, and McCaw's expertise at the breakdown.
He hailed yesterday's International Rugby Board (IRB) decision to formalise the rule giving the first player to the breakdown the advantage.He had no problem with the current laws around the crucial battle for possession at the tackle, but said his sympathy lay with referees.
"It's not that complicated, the fact it all happens so quick just makes it tough for the ref."
The only change McCaw would make was for refs to be tougher on players who leaned on the tackler to make it appear as if they were playing the ball on their feet.
"If there's any doubt then you're not on your feet. It might mean more penalties but it will mean more accuracy. There's guys that lie on the player and look like they're on their feet... it's got to be a genuine attempt to lift the ball on their feet, that would help a bit."
NZPA - (3/12/2009)
All Blacks captain Richie McCaw says the high of the demolition of France and a relaxed buildup has helped him brace his weary body for one final rugby match here at Twickenham.
Rather than rest alongside fellow frontliners Dan Carter, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Kieran Read and Tony Woodcock, the newly-crowned International Rugby Board (IRB) player of the year will skipper the All Blacks against the Barbarians.
McCaw admitted he was "over rugby" in 2009, more mentally than physically, but said the buzz of their Marseille mayhem last weekend helped keep him going.
"I had a fair idea for a while I'd be playing. We were always going to give other guys a crack, but being captain of the team I'm more than happy to help out," McCaw said."All the guys had a lot of fun last week and you just can't carry on like last week, you've got to get in the game, but if it was as much fun as that it'd be well worth it."
After a night of celebrations in Marseille, McCaw and several teammates visited the adidas factory in Germany then had two quiet days before their first training at a pristine Harrow School.
While his early-season injury meant McCaw played 10 of the All Blacks' 14 tests this year, the mental strain of skippering the side and the rigours of the six weeks on their unbeaten tour was starting to show.
"I'm ready for a break to be honest. Body-wise I'm really good. It's more I've just had enough of rugby for another year, not to much the games but the training and stuff that goes with it.
"That's good about this week, it's not the intensity of a test match so it makes it a little bit easier to get ready, a bit more relaxed."
But while the buildup might be low-key, McCaw knows the Twickenham match will be anything but.
He played for the Barbarians against the Wallabies at Wembley a year ago as they gave the tourists a fright before losing 18-11.
A formidable Barbarians loose trio of Wallabies Rocky Elsom, George Smith and Springbok Schalk Burger will ensure no easy ride for McCaw and fellow loosies Liam Messam and Rodney So'oialo.
"Last year's game was one of the most physical I played on the tour so it's not easy either. The Barbarians boys got stuck into the Wallabies early on. It was close."
Still, the All Blacks, with just McCaw and fullback Cory Jane back from the France test, will try to throw the ball around.
Their ability to do that will depend on gaining the solid forward platform they were able to set in Marseille, and McCaw's expertise at the breakdown.
He hailed yesterday's International Rugby Board (IRB) decision to formalise the rule giving the first player to the breakdown the advantage.He had no problem with the current laws around the crucial battle for possession at the tackle, but said his sympathy lay with referees.
"It's not that complicated, the fact it all happens so quick just makes it tough for the ref."
The only change McCaw would make was for refs to be tougher on players who leaned on the tackler to make it appear as if they were playing the ball on their feet.
"If there's any doubt then you're not on your feet. It might mean more penalties but it will mean more accuracy. There's guys that lie on the player and look like they're on their feet... it's got to be a genuine attempt to lift the ball on their feet, that would help a bit."
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
McCaw at helm for BaaBaas clash
http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid=12733.html
Wednesday, December 02
Richie McCaw will captain the All Blacks when they run out against the Barbarians at Twickenham on Saturday.
New Zealand coach Graham Henry has rested a large number of his front line players, but decided to keep McCaw in charge for their final fling of the season.
Mils Muliaina, Dan Carter, Brad Thorn and Tony Woodcock are some of the notable absentees from the team named on Wednesday.
Cory Jane, Ben Smith and Zac Guildford make up a young and exciting back three while the Chiefs halfback pairing of Stephen Donald and Brendon Leonard are selected to run proceedings behind the scrum.
Luke McAlister, Rodney So'oialo, McCaw, Jason Eaton and Andrew Hore provide the experienced core of the side.
New Zealand:
15 Cory Jane, 14 Ben Smith, 13 Tamati Ellison, 12 Luke McAlister, 11 Zac Guildford,
10 Stephen Donald, 9 Brendon Leonard,
8 Rodney So’oialo, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 6 Liam Messam, 5 Anthony Boric, 4 Jason Eaton, 3 John Afoa, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves - 16 Andrew Hore, 17 Neemia Tialata, 18 Adam Thomson, 19 Tanerau Latimer, 20 Jimmy Cowan, 21 Mike Delany, 22 Sitiveni Sivivatu.
Wednesday, December 02
Richie McCaw will captain the All Blacks when they run out against the Barbarians at Twickenham on Saturday.
New Zealand coach Graham Henry has rested a large number of his front line players, but decided to keep McCaw in charge for their final fling of the season.
Mils Muliaina, Dan Carter, Brad Thorn and Tony Woodcock are some of the notable absentees from the team named on Wednesday.
Cory Jane, Ben Smith and Zac Guildford make up a young and exciting back three while the Chiefs halfback pairing of Stephen Donald and Brendon Leonard are selected to run proceedings behind the scrum.
Luke McAlister, Rodney So'oialo, McCaw, Jason Eaton and Andrew Hore provide the experienced core of the side.
New Zealand:
15 Cory Jane, 14 Ben Smith, 13 Tamati Ellison, 12 Luke McAlister, 11 Zac Guildford,
10 Stephen Donald, 9 Brendon Leonard,
8 Rodney So’oialo, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 6 Liam Messam, 5 Anthony Boric, 4 Jason Eaton, 3 John Afoa, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves - 16 Andrew Hore, 17 Neemia Tialata, 18 Adam Thomson, 19 Tanerau Latimer, 20 Jimmy Cowan, 21 Mike Delany, 22 Sitiveni Sivivatu.
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