All Blacks skipper reveals his reading of referees

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3969277/All-Blacks-skipper-reveals-his-reading-of-referees
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE in Melbourne - Stuff

Richie McCaw has given a frank account of how he plays the referees as well as the opposition to maintain his mantle as the best openside flanker in test rugby.

The All Blacks skipper dominates opponents with his sheers skills and infuriates opposition coaches – most notably South African Peter de Villiers – with his tactics.

He has been labelled a cheat many times during his 85-test career but makes no apologies for his style of game.

He says he has a clear idea of how far he can push the boundaries in the most competitive area of the game at the breakdowns.

"If you go in gun shy you're not going to have an impact," McCaw told media as he prepares to tackle Australia in Melbourne this weekend.

"I think the big thing is to understand where you sit and what you're going to get away with and what you're not.

"As long as you're not putting the team under heaps of pressure you've got to still be at the point of knowing what you can get away with and what you can't and the odd thing you might get wrong."

He had a tough time in the last test against the Springboks in Wellington with many considering he may have been lucky to avoid a yellow card.

"I think I gave away four penalties or it might have been five and there were a couple of them I was disappointed with."

It was a matter of reading the referee as much as his opponents at times.

"How do I say it? What I think is right and what he (the ref) thinks is right could be different so you've got to figure it out pretty quickly.

"I always think the things I'm trying to do are the right things and if he's penalising me for some reason I think 'geez I'm not going to get away with that today' or 'that's not going to work with this ref'.

"Each ref is a little bit different. I have a fairly good understanding of where they'll sit, just through experiences."

He doesn't believe he has a privileged position as captain to exploit the nuances that come with being a No 7.

"I wouldn't have thought so. They pride themselves on making sure they call it the same way no matter who it is. There are times I get it the other way perhaps.

"I do know what they are going to do and I always have a yarn in the shed before the game as to what they've seen previously or if they have got ay concerns. Hopefully they'll tell me if they think I'm getting it all wrong."

McCaw has revelled in the new rule interpretations and been delighted at the ability of his fellow back rowers Kieran Read and Jerome Kaino to take a bit of pressure off him.

He's not just a scavenger now ... he is showing his value as a link player as well in the high-tempo game the All Blacks have played.

Undoubtedly the player of his generation, he is being likened to Sean Fitzpatrick in terms of his leadership which has certainly grown.

It's been hardened by some tough experiences – most notably the World Cup quarterfinal loss to France in Cardiff where the All Blacks fell apart under immense pressure.

There's a sense that is starting to change.

There's also a feeling that the fast game the All Blacks are playing is based around super quick ball and plenty of that is being delivered by McCaw's marvellous skills under the watchful eyes of referees.
He has South African whistleman Craig Joubert to deal with this weekend and a growing force in Australian flanker David Pocock.

It should be quite a night and one thing is for sure – McCaw as captain and flanker – will be right in the thick of it.

McCaw has no plans to change his style

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3963786/McCaw-has-no-plans-to-change-his-style
By RICHARD KNOWLER in Melbourne - The Press

The Springboks' froth-flecked rants will not force Richie McCaw to go gun-shy at the breakdown.

Despite admitting he deserved to get penalised a couple of times in the 31-17 win over the Springboks in Wellington on July 17, All Blacks captain and openside flanker McCaw has vowed to make referee Craig Joubert earn his dosh against the Wallabies at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.

Springboks coach Peter de Villiers and captain John Smit could hardly contain their frustration after their loss to the All Blacks 11 days ago, with both making thinly veiled accusations towards McCaw after he survived repeated warnings from referee Alain Rolland.

But for McCaw, who will play his 86th test in Melbourne, it will be business as usual in the Bledisloe Cup opener and he reckons he cannot afford to worry about the South Africans' complaints prejudicing the officials' rulings.

"A couple of times I got it wrong, there's a couple I would probably debate. I think the big thing is to understand where you sit, and what you are going to get away with and what you are not.

"I got it wrong a couple of times, no doubt."

For the 29-year-old, riding the boundaries of the ruck law are just part of his trade and he was unapologetic: "As long as I am not putting my team under heaps of pressure, you still have to be at the point of knowing what you can get away with and what you can't. And the odd time, you might get it wrong.

"I think I gave away four penalties, it might have even been five last week. There were a couple of them that I was disappointed with."

McCaw has become the master of the art of judging the referee's mood early in the match, and his contest on the ground against Wallabies No7 David Pocock will be one of the highlights for many purists.

Just as they fingered McCaw for slowing the ball down, the Springboks went ballistic about the impact Pocock had on the breakdown following their defeat by the Aussies in Brisbane last weekend.

Like any match, McCaw will meet the referee before the test to get a feel for what he expects.

"I like to have a yarn to them in the shed before the game and what they have seen previously and if they have got any concerns. Hopefully, they will tell me if they think I am getting it all wrong."

Meanwhile, Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has made just two personnel changes to his starting side from last weekend, with Berrick Barnes coming in at second five-eighth and Matt Giteau shuffling in one spot to replace the suspended Quade Cooper.

Richie McCaw Papier Mache

The All Black captain surprises a Northland primary school class

All Blacks v Springboks - Photos

McCaw's politeness saves him from the sinbin

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/opinion/3933283/McCaws-politeness-saves-him-from-the-sinbin
By PETER LAMPP - Manawatu Standard

Richie McCaw might get away with murder, but hey, at least he's our murderer.
The freak flanker brings out the worst in opponents like Springbok Danie Rossouw and the best in obsequious referees.

McCaw probably should've been binned for his chicanery at breakdowns, but he's so polite to whistlemeisters they simply keep warning him, as did Alain Rolland.

Rossouw sank his Springboks at Wellington on Saturday night when he trudged to the cooler, more for intent to boot Richie over the goalposts than for a damaging kick. Just imagine the coaches at every pre-test team meeting. "If you can, get that McCaw."

Remember Irish No8 Jamie Heaslip who saw red and kneed McCaw at New Plymouth last month and was redded by our friend Wayne Barnes.

McCaw remains our hero, for his work-rate alone and the opposition can stay paranoid about him for all we care.

"I was guilty of giving away a couple of penalties, of not holding my feet a couple of times," he told us after the match.

Almost everyone illegally flops at the crash-fests that are rucks, and Boks like Gurthro Steenkamp do it in their sleep.

It doesn't excuse the brainlessness of South Africans who wear No4, oblivious to the all-seeing TV lens.

Comical coach Pieter de Villiers squeakily came up with a daft line like this: "I don't like to prepare guys to cheat, but it seems to be the only way forward ..."

The All Blacks now have the wood on these blighters and they'll whip the legs from the Aussies in Melbourne on July 31, too.

Prop Owen Franks confirmed to us that the kamikaze tackling was the key to the ferocious AB defence.

Having an extra second or two to hold the ball in the tackle, and not allowing chasers to rush ahead of the kicker, have castrated the Boks and stunted their air raids.

Now the bombs are just running fodder for the All Blacks, while the Africans only once ran it back and had it turned over. As the rain washed in off Cook Strait, Morne Steyn's up-and-unders sailed way too far, while Dan Carter's were plummeting just outside the 22.

While the Boks were better than at Auckland, they were never going to win at Wellington. They hate the fast game and they had too many flops, like Messrs Spies, Matfield, Smit, Habana, while we have new, world-class players of Kieran Read's kin coming on.

Our Dan gave them a chance by missing his shots in the swirling maritime wind.
While their Super 14 sides ran the ball, these Africans under the clown prince don't seem to have a plan A, let alone B, other than brute force.

The ABs pop wee pop passes, even inside their 22, until someone finds clear air.

Mils Muliaina said he ran so fast for his try because he said he thought Habana was up his Gunga Din. Israel Dagg's stutter-step try was David Campese at his best, but Dagg's presence meant we had three fullbacks on the field.

Where does that leave Hosea Gear and Zac Guildford? Test rugby might be a step too far for Rene Ranger, who seems to lack passing vision, as he did against Wales at Hamilton.

Piri Weepu had a blinder after securing his spot as a back-up goalkicker for Aaron Cruden. But Jimmy Cowan is just out of form and needs a rest.

Last year there was only one four-try bonus point, to the Boks in Perth. Already the All Blacks have two and have surely all but cleaned up the Tri Nations.

If the World Cup was now, only one team would chase our lot, and they play in bleu and eat gastropods.

All Blacks v Springboks - Player Ratings

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3930804/All-Blacks-player-ratings
By TOBY ROBSON - The Dominion Post

All Blacks player ratings following the second Tri-Nations test against South Africa at Westpac Stadium.

Mils Muliaina 7.5 Another polished effort from he veteran fullback who showed again his top-end pace to outstrip the cover to score in the first half. Also pulled off a brilliant one-on-one tackle on Zane Kirchner.

Cory Jane 7 For the second week running play didn't really run Jane's way. Defence was superb though and Bryan Habana has not found a way past his marker in two tests.

Rene Ranger 6 A mixed bag from the rookie. Made two fumbles in the first half when he had one eye on South Africa's defence and was unluckily penalised for a no-arms tackle. Bounced back well with his first test try though.

Conrad Smith 7 Mr Consistency, Smith was solid on defence but had few chances with ball in hand.

Ma'a Nonu 7.5 Some lovely wide passing mixed with his usual impact with ball in hand, a couple of massive tackles and a try to boot. Provides perfect centrepiece for the All Blacks' back attack.

Dan Carter 6.5 Loses half a point for poor goalkicking in the stadium's tricky winds, but his option-taking and defence were as sound as ever.

Piri Weepu 8.5 Only McCaw and Read had as big an influence on the All Blacks effort. Weepu's sniping runs had bite from the start, his pass was snappy and his kicking accurate.

Kieran Read 8 Going from strength to strength, Read's tireless ball-carrying, sound work under the high ball and subtle offloads are providing a dynamic link between backs and forwards.

Richie McCaw 9 Mammoth match from the skipper who seems to do an equal amount on attack and defence. Support play in recent weeks has been reminiscent of Michael Jones in his prime.

Jerome Kaino 7.5 The defensive enforcer of the loose trio, Kaino again put in some huge tackles and did his fair share on attack too.

Tom Donnelly 7.5 Took the opening kickoff and went about his business from there. Has a nice mix of athleticism and old-school work ethic that is vital to the All Blacks engineroom.

Brad Thorn 7 Not quite the herculean effort of a week prior, but hurled himself into every ruck going and shored up the defence around the rucks.

Owen Franks 7 Solid effort up front where Franks looks more at home by the week at test level.

Keven Mealamu 7 Was never going to emulate his Eden Park effort, but continued his tireless work in close quarters. Won't be happy with four lost lineouts.

Tony Woodcock 7 Under-rated defender and solid at set piece.

Also:
Israel Dagg 7.5 Strong in the air and produced the highlight of the season when he beat five South African defenders on a run to the line.

Jimmy Cowan 7 Added spark around the base and found his runners with confidence. Appeared to get caught out when Zane Kirchner sliced through.

Not rated: Sam Whitelock, Ben Franks, Aaron Cruden, Liam Messam,Corey Flynn.

All Blacks demolish Springboks again

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3929843/All-Blacks-demolish-Springboks-again
By MARC HINTON - Stuff


Forget the great Party Central debate. The fun is to be had where the All Blacks are these days as Graham Henry's men play a brand of rugby that is as energising as it is entertaining.

For the second straight week the revitalised All Blacks have taken care of business against the world champion Springboks, on Saturday night securing their 11th test win on the trot with another outstanding display in Wellington, prevailing 31-17, four tries to two, in a near carbon copy from last week at Eden Park.

The Boks were much better this week, but it was telling that they were still second in this contest by some margin and once again could not prevent the New Zealanders running in four tries and taking the bonus point which puts them into a commanding spot on the Tri-Nations table.

It was not quite the complete All Black performance that we saw at Eden Park, but it was nonetheless another impressive one from Richie McCaw and his men as they continued their ruthless attacking form, again defended very well and had the standout individuals on the park for the second straight week.

Led by a couple of hometown heroes in Piri Weepu and Ma'a Nonu and another showcase performance from No 8 Kieran Read, the All Blacks were superior in most aspects against a more urgent Springboks outfit. McCaw also had a mighty match on defence and at the tackle where he engineered a succession of key turnovers.

There was also a nice little cameo from Israel Dagg off the bench, including a dazzling try late in the match that sealed the deal, another fine display from Mils Muliaina at the back and a continuation of Cory Jane's precision play on the wing.
The Boks forwards were more competitive this week and it was good to see Schalk Burger, in particular, becoming more visible with a much better performance. They even got amongst the home lineout in the second spell and either side of halftime managed to get some promising flow on that put the New Zealanders under real pressure.

But the All Blacks were superb mentally, punishing the Boks with two tries for some early ill-discipline and then closing the game down when they had to. They took their chances superbly and their defence was again brilliant as the South Africans struggled to convert their pressure into points at key times.

On a horrible old night in the capital the All Blacks burst out of the blocks with some beautiful rugby to go 10-0 up within a dozen minutes. And once again the New Zealanders punished the South Africans for yet more poor discipline.

The culprit this time was Danie Rossouw - Bakkies Botha's replacement, would you believe -- who was handed a yellow card for a niggly little nudge on Richie McCaw while he was on the deck, an offence that didn't just cost his team three points (a kickable penalty was reversed) but a further 10 as the All Blacks punished the under-manned South Africans with two quick strikes.

They were exhilarating scores, too, launched from deep with pace and precision, which is a good sign as this All Black attacking game rumbles into some pretty formidable form.

Nonu's try was set up by a fabulous raid down the right touchline that saw Read, Jane and McCaw all show their skills, and when Nonu finally entered the fray across field the powerhouse No 12 could not be stopped as he drove over like the bulldozer he is.

Then soon after Weepu - having a fabulous game - set up a try for Mils Muliaina with a great break down the middle and then a perfectly weighted pass for the fullback to steam on to and finish a 75m strike.

The Springboks didn't exactly roll over and play dead though and once Rossouw returned from his 10 minutes of purgatory, the visitors actually had the better of the next half-hour or so, getting the margin back to six by the break - thanks to an atoning try from the big second-rower.

The Boks also had their chances through the third quarter, but a nice finish by Rene Ranger out wide on the left - for his first test try in his first start - took the All Blacks out to an 18-10 lead that was soon extended by a further three when Weepu banged over a tricky penalty into the breeze.

From there the Boks were teetering on the brink and, a quarter of an hour out, when Dagg entered the fray and dazzled a succession of Boks defenders down the right touchline this baby was over. It was a superb piece of skill and footwork by the talented Hawke's Bay speedster and left the visitors playing for pride only over the final quarter of an hour.

Weepu had led the haka with as much gusto and passion as I've see from anyone and then the chunky little halfback proceeded to unleash a blinder in his first test start in 18 months. Judging by this effort, his days as Mr Impact off the bench could be at an end.

It was notable afterwards to hear Graham Henry label him the "player of the match" and wax decidedly lyrical about his halfback's contribution.

Read too made a powerful start to this match, causing all sort of problems with his mix of power and skilful offloads, and for the second straight week he played his highly rated opposite, Pierre Spies, off the park.

McCaw's contributions cannot be taken for granted either. He is at the heart of everything that is good for these All Blacks and his tireless play undoubtedly inspires his team-mates to go the extra yard.

Ranger also got through a busy night in his first test as a starter, his hands letting him down on a couple of occasions, but the Northlander doing well to finish the one clear chance that came his way. All told a promising night for the rookie 23-year-old.

With the win, the All Blacks extended their record at the Wellington venue to 11 wins from 13 since 2000, and also continue a fabulous rebuild from the ruins of last year's Springboks sweep. They've now won 11 in a row and though these deeds will mean nothing come next year's World Cup, valuable confidence, cohesion and character is being assimilated.

Afterwards McCaw reflected on another pretty satisfying night's work.
"I'm really proud of the boys," he said. "It's always easy to put one performance out there but to back it up tonight I'm very happy. The Boks certainly came to play and it was pretty physical out there."

McCaw said the message at halftime had been about urgency and the need to re-establish it, and it was refreshing to see his side soak up the pressure and then continue to build their lead.

"Defence can be a difference we had to defend pretty hard there and turn over the ball a couple of times and getting down the other end and score is what you've got to do in these games.

"When you're playing against the best in the world that's where you test yourself. To have two wins and two pretty good performances, we're very happy."
Let the partying begin. There's certainly plenty to celebrate for anyone who calls this All Blacks side their own.


All Blacks 31 (Ma'a Nonu, Mils Muliaina, Rene Ranger, Israel Dagg tries; Daniel Carter 2 pen, con, Piri Weepu pen)

South Africa 17 (Danie Rossouw, Schalk Burger tries; Morne Steyn pen, 2 con).
Halftime: 13-7.

All Blacks name Weepu, Ranger to start

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3920777/All-Blacks-name-Weepu-Ranger-to-start

Piri Weepu and Rene Ranger have been handed starting roles in the All Blacks team to play the Springboks in Wellington this Saturday.

Weepu comes off the bench to start at halfback in his 40th test, and Ranger, who made his test debut off the bench last month against Wales in Hamilton, gets his first test start on the left wing.

On the bench, Jimmy Cowan has recovered from his abdominal strain, while Israel Dagg, who played against Ireland and Wales, provides outside back cover.

''We have stuck with the majority of players who played so well in last week's win at Eden Park and they are ready for what will be another major contest,'' All Blacks coach Graham Henry said.

"The players know that they will face a different, more physical Springboks side.''

Joe Rokocoko (strained hamstring) and Richard Kahui (shoulder) were not considered for selection. Kahui will see a specialist on Monday for a further assessment on the extent of his injury

''It's hugely disappointing for Richard who has played extremely well for the All Blacks and contributed greatly to the team so far this year and he will be sorely missed.

''We will await advice from the medical team on how long he will be out for.''

The team is: Mills Muliaina, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Rene Ranger, Daniel Carter, Piri Weepu, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw, Jerome Kaino, Tom Donnelly, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Sam Whitelock, Liam Messam, Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg.

McCaw admits: This is big‏

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/3903365/McCaw-admits-This-is-big
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE - Stuff
09/07/2010

The magnitude of the Tri-Nations opener against the Springboks isn't lost on the All Blacks but captain Richie McCaw says his team can't get caught up in the hype.
The two teams - world champions South Africa and world No 1 ranked New Zealand - square off at Eden Park tomorrow night.
With the All Blacks trying to stop a three-match losing streak to the Boks and defending a proud record at Eden Park, headquarters for next year's World Cup, this is no ordinary test. There is clearly an edge to it, something McCaw acknowledged.

"It's great that there is a lot of talk and interest in the game. That's the way it should be and with everything that has gone on in the last 12 months, that's the reason why," McCaw said as he led the team's captain's run at the ground today.
"We have to be careful that we don't get caught up in that. We want to go out and deliver and make it a game that Kiwis enjoy and we will enjoy that too."

McCaw said it was important for his side not to get caught up in the negatives of their recent run against South Africa.
This was a fresh opportunity and a match that would provide a good barometer for his team.

"We went on the end of year tour and we played some good rugby and the first three weeks (this year) we have been happy with. But I guess with the top two teams in the world playing we will see where we are at. Hopefully we are where we think we are.
"It is important, it's the start of the Tri-Nations and we start off with two home games. We are against a pretty good team and we are going to have to play our best. We have had a good start to the year but this is another step up that we need to make as a team. So yes, it's really important."

McCaw conceded that his side were fuelled by a desire to right some wrongs from last year. But they also wanted to achieve their own high standards rather than rely on revenge as a motivator.

"I'd be lying if I didn't say there is a little bit in there. But you can't just rely on that to mean there is going to be a difference out there. That might add a wee bit of extra edge but the guys are pretty excited about getting into this.
"The first three weeks we have played some pretty good rugby but the want to put together performances for 80 minutes is something that is driving us as well."

He felt this test would be decided by "the team that puts the most pressure on and takes the opportunities".

"I don't think we will get as much freedom as we got in June (against Ireland and Wales). But we got opportunities that we didn't take then and we can't afford to do that now. We have to build some pressure and play at the right end of the field.
"The reality is in these games there aren't that many opportunities. Every one you get you have to take. We have to force the Springboks into mistakes, build pressure on them and create some opportunities.
"A lot of it will come down to that desire and the will to last right till 80 minutes because sometimes one thing near the end might be the difference."

The All Blacks on New Zealand‏

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sponsored/travel/newzealand2011/7498745/The-All-Blacks-on-New-Zealand.html
25 Mar 2010

Players from the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team discuss their favourite places in New Zealand, and what they like to do in their spare time, from fishing and diving to skiing and shopping.

All Blacks push Slice of Heaven in ad‏

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3781974/All-Blacks-push-Slice-of-Heaven-in-ad
By NEIL REID - Sunday News
06/06/2010

All Blacks stars are selling the world on their own Slice of Heaven.
Captain Richie McCaw, Daniel Carter, Keven Mealamu and Luke McAlister are among those promoting scenic New Zealand ahead of the 2011 World Cup.
The nine-minute promotional clip, also starring Anton Oliver and Reuben Thorne, features on the website of influential British newspaper The Telegraph.
McCaw even uses a line from Fred Dagg to remind Kiwis we don't know how "lucky" we are.

"Even as New Zealanders, we don't realise the beautiful scenery and what we have in our own backyard," the All Blacks skipper says.
"I think every time I speak to someone who comes and has a look around New Zealand, they just say what great scenery we have got – it feels clean and green. That is what we are lucky to live in."

McCaw will lead the All Blacks against Ireland on Saturday.
While several hundred fans are expected to travel here for the test, more than 60,000 rugby tourists are expected for next year's World Cup.
Carter highlighted Queenstown and Mt Maunganui as his dream Kiwi holiday spots.

"Queenstown has to be right up there, especially for the whole tourism thing," he said.
Mt Maunganui appealed to him because of the "relaxed lifestyle".
He also gave a shout-out to his home city of Christchurch.

"The Mount" was also high on the must-visit list for All Blacks hooker Mealamu and his young family.
But if he wanted to take his wife away on a shopping weekend the preferred destination was Wellington.
Oliver – who last played for the All Blacks in 2007 and now lives on Auckland's North Shore – rated Central Otago and the Mackenzie Basin as places of solitude and pure relaxation.

McAlister nominated Waiheke Island as his favourite getaway spot.
As well as posting video clips featuring All Blacks – past and present – The Telegraph has also sent a reporter here to write weekly blogs on Aotearoa's sights and sounds.

No 7, pennies from heaven‏

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10657259&ref=emailfriend

By Emma Whittaker
Thursday Jul 8, 2010

While it will take more than luck for the All Blacks to win against the Springboks on the weekend, it was all Richie McCaw, Ma'a Nonu and Tom Donnelly had when they joined fans for a game of outdoor bingo yesterday.
Despite the strong winds, plenty of supporters turned up to meet the players and be there for the chance to win a kiss from Richie McCaw or tickets to Saturday night's match which has sold out.

Avid supporter Andrew Craig, 26, from Auckland, who was not put off by the weather, said "Even if I knew it was like this I would have come anyway to try and get the tickets, I'm a diehard fan."
The day turned out to be even more special for 8-year-old Guy Irwin from Auckland. Guy and his brother Tom Irwin,11, got a helping hand during the game from captain McCaw.
Guy's mother Billie Irwin said Guy was supposed to attend a training session with the All Blacks on Monday and play with them, however a mistake made by the club where he plays meant too many children were put forward and so Guy and six others were told they were no longer going.
However, meeting McCaw "made it all OK", she said.

The game was organised by BackingBlack which is an All Blacks supporters group set up to gather support in the lead up to the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
For the record, McCaw, who had never played bingo before, says the All Blacks will win on Saturday.
"It'll be a tough match, but if I thought otherwise I wouldn't be turning up".

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw joins 8-year-old Guy Irwin for a game of outdoor bingo yesterday. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Preview: New Zealand v South Africa

http://www.skysport.co.nz/Default.aspx?tabid=55&cid=26880
skysport.co.nz, Thursday, 8 July 2010

VENUE & TIME: Eden Park, Auckland, Saturday July 10, 19:35 NZT.

HEAD TO HEAD: Played 78 - New Zealand 42, South Africa33, Draws 3.

LAST TIME:
September 12, 2009 (Hamilton) - New Zealand 29-32 South Africa.

WALKING WOUNDED:
New Zealand goes into its latest Tri Nations campaign without lock Ali Williams and hooker Andrew Hore while first five-eighths Stephen Donald and Mike Delany have also succumbed to injuries.

The most notable absentees for South Africa are outstanding halfback Fourie du Preez, hooker Bismark de Plessis and flanker Heinrich Brussow. Bakkies Botha came through an injury scare earlier in the week to take his place in the side.

FORM:
Both sides had cause to be happy with their early season form, although the South Africans had to step up a gear against Italy after a disappointing first Test, but there was no doubting the world champion's form in the second.

New Zealand had a disappointing second Test against Wales and the challenge ahead is to see if it can put that effort behind it and to gain the sort of play over 80 minutes that was seen in the first half against Ireland and the second half of the first Test against Wales.

WHO'S HOT:
The respective first five-eighths of the sides, Dan Carter for New Zealand and Morne Steyn for South Africa, have been dominating individuals in games this year.

Steyn, not renowned for his running play touched down twice in a 26-point haul in the 55-11 win over Italy in East London while Carter's penalty kicking form severely punished Wales at Hamilton as he finished with 17 points after some of his most consistent play in the last two years.

However, both will be dependent on the quality of ball their packs can provide them with. South Africa will be looking to dominate the tight, especially the lineouts, while New Zealand will be looking to counter South Africa's strength in the loose where No.8 Pierre Spies is one of the most dynamic players in the world. Richie McCaw, Kieran Read and Jerome Kaino will be key performers in New Zealand gaining the quality of ball needed to set up the foundation for a win.

WE THINK:
This is a contest with all the hallmarks of the great New Zealand-South Africa contests for the last 90 years. It really does appear to be a case where the team that blinks first will find itself on the losing end.

This should see a powerful struggle up front. South Africa will look to kick for position and avoid allowing New Zealand the chance to counter attack while New Zealand will be looking to keep control of the ball, keep it out of the way of potential intercept situations and moving the South Africans around.

Desire is high among the New Zealanders who were stung last year and that should be enough to carry them home to a narrow victory.

TEAMS:
New Zealand
1.Tony Woodcock, 2.Keven Mealamu, 3.Owen Franks, 4.Brad Thorn, 5.Tom Donnelly, 6.Jerome Kaino, 7.Richie McCaw (captain), 8.Kieran Read, 9.Jimmy Cowan, 10.Dan Carter, 11.Josevata Rokocoko, 12.Ma'a Nonu, 13.Conrad Smith, 14.Cory Jane, 15. Mils Muliaina.
Reserves: 16.Corey Flynn, 17.Ben Franks, 18.Sam Whitelock, 19.Liam Messam, 20.Piri Weepu, 21.Aaron Cruden, 22.Richard Kahui.

South Africa
1. Gurthro Steenkamp, 2. John Smit (c), 3. Jannie du Plessis, 4. Bakkies Botha, 5. Victor Matfield, 6. Schalk Burger, 7. Francois Louw, 8.Pierre Spies, 9. Ricky Januarie, 10. Morne Steyn, 11. Bryan Habana, 12. Wynand Oliver, 13. Jaque Fourie, 14. Jean de Villiers, 15. Zane Kirchner
Reserves: 16. Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17. BJ Botha, 18. Andries Bekker, 19. Danie Rossouw, 20. Ruan Pienaar, 21. Butch James, 22. Gio Aplon.
REFEREE:Alan Lewis

allblack_mastercard_roadshow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93cwKV4LdeA

Louw-ready-for-McCaw-challenge

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3890959/Louw-ready-for-McCaw-challenge
By DUNCAN JOHNSTONE - The Dominion Post
07/07/2010

Francois Louw is honoured at the prospect of being the latest Springboks flanker asked to tame Richie McCaw, and his skipper, John Smit, believes he is up to the task.

McCaw has faced six different starting opponents in his 15 tangles with South Africa.

Louw, the barnstorming 25-year-old Stormers openside flanker, looks set to join the list when the Tri-Nations tournament opens at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday, asked to fill the boots of the injured Heinrich Brussow, who did such a fine job in the Springboks' whitewash of the All Blacks last season.

"It's been an interesting dynamic for us having lost Brussow early in the Super 14. You scratch your head thinking who on earth is going to replace the sort of work that he did last year. Then all of a sudden a guy like Francois steps up," Smit enthused of the newest member of his forward pack who was a standout in the early season tussles with Wales, France and Italy.
"He has played four tests and he has got three man-of-the-match awards. It just goes to show how the culture of the team helps someone, who has got the potential to play well, fit in straight away."

Louw readily acknowledged that the stakes go up for him in New Zealand.

"It's something that every South African rugby player aspires to – playing for your country and facing the All Blacks."

Louw was quick to deliver his appraisal of McCaw.

"He is one of the greats of rugby who has proven himself over the years. He was playing test rugby while I was still at school. Now to play against him, having always looked up to him, it's a great honour, especially here in New Zealand."

Louw has tangled with McCaw twice over the past two years of Super 14, something he described as "great experiences".

They had chatted after their first encounter but McCaw didn't give any secrets away.
At 1.90m and 110kg Louw has a slight physical edge over McCaw (1.87m, 105kg). Now it has come down to abilities, although he sensed the new law interpretations were bringing the larger loose forwards into the game more.

Add in the likes of Pierre Spies, Schalk Burger and Dewald Potgieter and the Springboks clearly have a massive physical element to their play at the breakdowns.

"I think the bigger forwards are carrying the ball more rather than just playing a defensive and tackling game.
"The object was to get the game flowing more with a running style of rugby and I think the laws have been effective. The attacking team has the advantage."

Louw was coy as to whether the All Blacks had been advantaged by the shift in interpretations but he was adamant New Zealand wouldn't lack for motivation.

"Obviously they want to prove themselves. The Boks had a hell of a run last year and the All Blacks will be out there to prove a point this time around.
"It's all sort of a pre-season for the World Cup and the guys want to lay a foundation now and prove what they are worth."

None more so than Louw himself who knows good performances against McCaw will help his chances of returning to New Zealand next year for the defence of the World Cup.

Meanwhile, the Springboks have delayed the naming of their test team until tomorrow as they monitor the leg injuries to locks Bakkies Botha and Danie Rossouw.

Video : All Blacks go for tried and true

http://www.stuff.co.nz/lightbox/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3890800/?KeepThis=true&TB_iframe=true&height=560&width=640

The All Blacks selectors have gone with the tried and true for this weekend's Tri Nations rugby test against the Springboks.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/lightbox/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3890800/?KeepThis=true

2010 Investec Tri Nations match schedule

Saturday 10 July

All Blacks v South Africa

Eden Park, Auckland

Saturday 17 July

All Blacks v South Africa

Westpac Stadium, Wellington

Saturday 24 July

Australia v South Africa

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Saturday 31July

Australia v All Blacks

Etihad Stadium, Melbourne

Saturday 7 August

All Blacks v Australia

AMI Stadium, Christchurch

Saturday 21 August

South Africa v All Blacks

Coca–Cola Park, Johannesburg

Saturday 28 August

South Africa v Australia

Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria

Saturday 4 September

South Africa v Australia

Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein

Saturday11 September

Australia v All Blacks

ANZ Stadium, Sydney

All Blacks team named for first Test against South Africa

http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=13522
allblacks.com - (6/07/2010)

All Blacks Coach Graham Henry and his Assistant Coaches Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith have named their team for the opening Test of the Investec Tri Nations against South Africa at Eden Park, Auckland, on Saturday 10 July.

Starting XV:
1. Tony Woodcock (63) 2. Keven Mealamu (74) 3. Owen Franks (12)4. Brad Thorn (40) 5. Tom Donnelly (7)6. Jerome Kaino (27) 7. Richie McCaw – captain (83) 8. Kieran Read (19)
9. Jimmy Cowan (36) 10. Daniel Carter (69)
11. Josevata Rokocoko (62)12. Ma’a Nonu (46) 13. Conrad Smith (35) 14. Cory Jane (15) 15. Mils Muliaina (83)
Reserves:16. Corey Flynn (7) 17. Ben Franks (2)18. Samuel Whitelock (3)19. Liam Messam (3)
20. Piri Weepu (37) 21. Aaron Cruden (3) 22. Richard Kahui (10)

The squad features four changes from the starting XV which started the second Test against Wales in Hamilton last month: Owen Franks comes into the front row at tighthead prop, 62-Test wing Josevata Rokocoko returns on the left wing, 46-Test All Black Ma’a Nonu returns from his knee injury at second five-eighth, with Conrad Smith, who has recovered from his eye injury, outside Nonu at centre.

On the bench, Corey Flynn is reserve hooker alongside prop Ben Franks, Samuel Whitelock is lock cover, with Liam Messam covering the loose forwards. Piri Weepu, Aaron Cruden and Richard Kahui are the back reserves.

Graham Henry said: “The Springboks are the defending Investec Tri Nations champions and, like us, will be keen to kick off their campaign on a winning note. However, our squad has prepared well and the players are excited by the first up challenge this weekend. It’s going to be a massive kick off to the competition.”

Two All Blacks reach significant milestones this weekend: Keven Mealamu is playing his 75th Test and will become the sixth most capped All Black in history, while Dan Carter is playing his 70th Test, joining his former Canterbury, Crusaders and All Blacks team-mate Andrew Mehrtens.

Meanwhile, this weekend’s Test marks a special milestone for Eden Park - it will be 90 years to the day since the All Blacks first played a match at the famous ground. The first All Blacks match at Eden Park was against Auckland on Saturday 20 July 1920, with 9,000 people turning up on a fine day for the match which ended in an 11-all draw.

REVENGE FACTOR

Richie McCaw

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3890014/McCaw-plays-it-cool-on-revenge-factor

[LAWRENCE SMITH/Fairfax Media]

McCaw plays it cool on revenge factor‏

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3890014/McCaw-plays-it-cool-on-revenge-factor
By MARC HINTON - Stuff
06/07/2010

Revenge may be the dish best served cold, but the All Blacks captain was doing his level best to downplay the emotional quotient for Saturday's Boks showdown at Eden Park.

It's fair to say there's enough hype around this Tri-Nations opener in Auckland without Richie McCaw adding fuel to the fire.Yes, the All Blacks owe the South Africans one - or two -- after last year's 3-0 whupping, and everyone knows that the New Zealanders need to reassert a bit of home dominance over such a dangerous foe just a year or so out from a certain global tournament.

But McCaw was toeing a more cautious line as he spoke to the media following today's announcement of a predictable, and experienced, All Blacks lineup.

"We've just got to be careful we don't play the game before Saturday because we've had an extra couple of days together. We've just got to make sure Saturday is the day we're ready to go," he said.

In other words, keep the excitement levels contained until you need them.An experienced team (there are a combined 325 test caps in the forwards; 346 in the backs) would help, reckoned the skip.

"There are times when you've got to think about it and times when you've got to relax a bit too. Hopefully the guys who have been around a while understand that."

Asked about the revenge factor, McCaw was clearly reluctant to buy into the storyline.

"I guess there's a bit of memory about last year and the guys who there are pretty keen to get stuck in again. It's been a while since we had a crack and we've had a while to think about it," said McCaw."We've just got to be careful we don't get too caught up in that... I've been looking forward to it for a while, and the reality is in the Tri-Nations with two home games to start we've got to win them if we're going to be in with a shot."

But there's no shortage of respect from McCaw when it comes to the Boks as a foe. He feels they have a depth to their rugby now that was once the sole preserve of the All Blacks and ensures that whatever the circumstances a quality team runs out on the pitch.

"The other thing is they're pretty physical," added McCaw. "You always realise you're in a test match. Even the games you win, they're still pretty hard matches physically. That's what you remember when you come off the field -- you know you've had a good old bashup."

McCaw also rates the Boks trio of Schalk Burger, Pierre Spies and Francois Louw as worthy competitors.

"The key is if you allow them to get across the advantage line off set piece and get nice easy ball there, that's when they come into their own. They're good players but they're not perfect and if you put them under pressure you can find areas to exploit."

And though McCaw was happy to acknowledge the Boks as the premier test in the game at the moment, he was not too keen to buy into the more long-reaching subplots to Saturday night's sold-out fixture.

"The long-term thing is building on what we did on the end-of-year tour and being better so at the end of this Tri-Nations we're in better shape than we were. So come this time next year if we keep aiming like that we'll be in pretty good shape."

McCaw was similarly bland on the matter of how important it was for the All Blacks' 20-test winning streak on Eden Park to be defended.
Some see this as a match that could have World Cup implications, and that if the Boks were able to win their first test in Auckland since 1937 they would be in the box seat for next year.

"That's secondary too," said McCaw. "It would be nice if that becomes the case, but it's not going to be the difference this week or next year. We do enjoy playing there and, hey, we'd love to keep that record going there and we certainly want to win on Saturday. But that's not the sole reason we want to do well. We want to do well because we want to beat the Springboks and win the Tri-Nations, and if it adds a bit to down the track that will be good."

McCaw: South Africa is beatable

http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=13505
Sportal.co.nz - (4/07/2010)

An old-fashioned sense of determination against the traditional foe of South Africa has emerged as the All Blacks look to the first of two home Tests against the Springboks.

All Blacks' captain Richie McCaw, and many of his senior team-mates, are not used to the feeling of having lost three successive Tests to South Africa as happened last year and there is a steely desire to turn those results around in this year's Tri Nations.

There was a feeling that last year the side never performed like it felt it could have during the Tri Nations games with the Springboks while this season there was some renewed confidence in the side.

"The Africans are a good team, but they are not a team that is unbeatable either. From our point of view we want to go out and play some good rugby," McCaw said.

In the Tests against Ireland and Wales the side had played some good rugby in parts, but putting the good parts together for most of the games was the aim of the side.

"If we can do that I think we will have a good chance," he said.

It was always a physical challenge playing South Africa which was a side that did not make a lot of mistakes.

"They don't play as much rugby as we or the Australians do, but what they do, they do very well. They like the set piece and they like to build pressure and force you into mistakes. That's something that perhaps last year we didn't deal with that well.
"Sometimes you have just got to put that pressure back on them and I think in the couple of games they lost last year teams got into them and unsettled them and were able to get their game going.
"I think that's what we've got to make sure we do next week," he said.

In the Tri Nations both South Africa and Australia were sides who could make All Blacks mistakes costly and it was important to be patient in assessing the risk factor when making a choice. McCaw said the Bulls and Stormers had shown an ability to mix their game in the Super 14 between kicking and running but there were opportunities that cropped up when you defended well against them.

"We find that if you use the ball and you don't get it quite right and you turn it over, that is when you are most unstructured in defence. At the end of the day it [defence] is half the game and you have got to get that right.
"I think where we are at there is reward for good positive play and ability to use the ball and hold onto it, there is still a contest if you get it right to," he said.

Last year the whole side was frustrated against South Africa because it never got its game going, was possibly beaten to the punch and out-muscled and were trapped at the wrong end of the field quite regularly which made it tough on everyone.

"I got a bit frustrated about that and hopefully we're a bit better this year," he said.

It would be up to the senior players to stand up and lead by example, as had been the case in the first half against Wales in Dunedin in June.

"We've got two home Tests and if we get two wins here it sets you off pretty well. If we don't it's tough to win the thing. We've got to win them and when you break down that we have got to get our performances right. I think we've got the ability, we've just to make sure we do it for long periods in the game," he said.

All Blacks skipper lets slip with the R-word‏

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3882650/All-Blacks-skipper-lets-slip-with-the-R-word
By GREG FORD - Sunday Star Times
04/07/2010

One of the many hallmarks of Richie McCaw's captaincy has been an aversion to saying anything even mildly contentious.

Yesterday, McCaw the diplomat, holding fort at Camp All Black, stayed to script.
He gave the Springboks, who arrive in Auckland tonight, not the smallest crumb to feed off, with one tiny but significant exception.

In a concession of sorts, McCaw confirmed the All Blacks were using last year's 3-0 drubbing by the Springboks as motivation for a term sadly almost extinct in the modern sporting lexicon: revenge.

"There is definitely a little bit of that," he said.
"We felt like we never performed like we could have last year. The Africans are a good team but they are not a team that is unbeatable too. So there is a bit of that."

It was a welcome departure from the usual McCaw patter.

The All Blacks, as most of us appreciate, are obsessed with "processes". Good "processes", we are (maddeningly) told, ensure good performances. But this year's Tri Nations is about one thing – vengeance – making it probably the most important of McCaw's distinguished career.

He, like the rest of the All Blacks, failed to perform to their potential last year. And if the team suffer a similar fate this year, they will hand Peter de Villier's side an all-important psychological edge heading into next year's world cup.

The current mood in the All Black camp is of general contentedness. But a loss on Saturday will change all that, and McCaw knows it.

"We have to start off well to win the Tri Nations," he said.
"We have got two home tests and if we can get two wins there, it sets you up pretty well, and if we don't, it is pretty hard to win.
"Certainly we are aware we have to win and to do that we have to break them down and make sure we get our performances right. We have the ability, we just have to make sure we do it for long periods in the game."

All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith echoed McCaw's sentiments.

"We are rated No1 in the world but I don't think anyone in the squad actually believes we are No1 in the world after losing to the Boks last year," he said.
"So I think there is a bit of that – really wanting to prove ourselves. There is nowhere to hide. We have a full squad, a healthy squad, we've got every opportunity and there is nowhere to hide.

"You just have to front up at 7.35 at Eden Park on Saturday and do the business."
Smith said the Eden Park factor was important but would count for little against the Boks.
"I don't like building up the home thing because it gives the impression that there is a difference.
"We have won our last nine tests and at least half of those have been away. But it's good to be at home and we have an opportunity next Saturday night, and we have to be good enough. They are going to come primed to do what they did last year so it's going to be a real test."

Both teams will name their starting XVs on Tuesday.

McCaw: I need to seriously step up against Boks‏

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3883269/McCaw-I-need-to-seriously-step-up-against-Boks
Sunday News
04/07/2010

Richie McCaw admits he has to step up his game against the Springboks.
The world champion South Africans open the defence of their Tri-Nations title at Eden Park on Saturday.

The Boks have been a persistent problem for All Blacks captain McCaw, touted as the world's best No7.

He has played them 15 times for 10 wins and five losses. He was frequently outplayed by the Springboks in last year's whitewash that saw the Boks win in Bloemfontein, Durban and Hamilton.

South Africa have brought Francois Louw, Schalk Burger, Ryan Kankowski and Pierre Spies – all hugely physical and athletic loose forwards – here to negate McCaw's skills at the breakdowns.
Asked if it was time to deliver personally, McCaw said: "Myself and the guys who have been around a little while have to do that."

He conceded it was a tough time for him last year and he and his team needed to rectify that.

"I think as a whole we were frustrated we never got our game going," he said of last year's struggles with the Boks.
"We got beaten to the punch and out-muscled and were caught at the wrong end of the field a lot, so that makes it pretty tough on everyone. So I guess I got a little frustrated. Hopefully, it will be better this year."

McCaw felt the All Blacks needed to produce the sort of effort they showed against Wales in the second half of the first test in Dunedin.

"The senior players really stood up and played well in that half and we have to make sure we do that and show the young fellas the way and I am certainly a big part of that."

McCaw said if the All Blacks were to win back the Tri-Nations trophy they had to win these two tests in New Zealand.

Braid could end search for McCaw's successor

http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=13516
James Mortimer - (5/07/2010)

Daniel Braid is back in New Zealand after rejoining Auckland, after taking a five week break in Europe and finishing a successful two year stint with the Queensland Reds.

Braid was brilliant with the Brisbane based franchise, becoming an integral part of the setup, including being named as the vice captain under Ewen McKenzie this season.

Not only that, but the openside was arguably the form number seven in the competition, slotting in well with the Reds high octane running game, engineered around their dynamic halves combination of Will Genia and Quade Cooper.

Some rugby maxims state that an openside’s pure role is to operate as a link between the forwards and backs - which Braid excelled at with Queensland - and the game as played under the new law interpretations suited the former All Black to a tee.

Now, having re-signed with the NZRU and Auckland Unions for three years, Braid will look to establish himself as All Blacks captain Richie McCaw’s immediate backup.

Despite rumours that the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) was willing to relax their two year foreign import rule for the 29 year old, and the fact that Braid would have fetched a handsome sum playing in Europe, the lure of again donning the Black jersey and locking in a World Cup berth was too big an opportunity.

He will be keen to add to his four test caps.

"I'm motivated, I'm refreshed, I've had a stint overseas, I've just been away on my honeymoon, so now I've come back keen to get in and play some rugby for a union I love," said Braid to stuff.co.nz

His role in helping the Reds to a fairy tale fifth place finish in the Rebel Sport Super 14 attracted the attention of many in New Zealand, and Braid hopes that those who matter will keep their eyes on him.

"So now I've come back hopefully to show my form and try to make the All Blacks," Braid said."I didn't have the opportunity to play for the All Blacks while I was in Australia, and that's still one of my goals - to make the All Black selectors want to pick me."

Braid was injured in 2009, but said the forced recuperation and a big off season helped him focus on what turned out to be possibly his best ever year at the highest level with Queensland.

"I was able to have a really big pre-season over there from October, and the preparation I put in was really important in terms of the form I had during the season,” Braid said."Having that amount of time to get the body right and to get fit was really good.”

Braid though will hope he can help Auckland recapture their glory days, last being with the province when they won a Ranfurly and Air New Zealand Cup double in 2007.

"We've got some young guys coming through, and we've also brought a few guys in from around the place," said Braid. "It will be a strong team. Family's here, a lot of my friends are here, it's a union I love playing for, I enjoy living here, and it's time to get back and start a family. There's a lot of things to look forward to in New Zealand - not just rugby."

Prime Minister warns All Blacks captain

http://www.allblacks.com/index.cfm?layout=displayNews&newsArticle=13517
James Mortimer - (5/07/2010)

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has joked that Richie McCaw could be tasered if the All Blacks fail to win the Rugby World Cup.

Key is in Seoul, and this morning addressed a group of business leaders during his visit to Korea, with the countries leader trying to secure a free trade agreement to help New Zealand’s economic growth.

Key said that the country was in good shape and on the sporting front was riding a wave of optimism following the All Whites unbeaten run at the FIFA World Cup.

The Prime Minister hoped that the All Blacks could emulate their round ball cousins and go unbeaten at their home Rugby World Cup next year.

"I've tried tell Richie McCaw that it's very important - it's election year," Mr Key said.

He has said previously that McCaw would be knighted if the All Blacks won the World Cup, but light heartedly threatened the captain if he couldn’t lift the William Webb Ellis trophy.

"Now I've encouraged him to get to know the Minister of Police (Judith Collins) cause I've decided if he doesn't win the rugby World Cup maybe we'll consider tasering him. We're an incentive based political party," Key said.

Setting lofty goals is the agenda for Key in his political visits, among those being try to reach the same wage rate as Australia in the future.

"To do that we have to grow at two per cent a year faster than Australia every year for the next 15 years,” Key said."That ain't easy...in fact Richie McCaw's job of winning the rugby world cup looks slightly easier than that."

ONE Sport : video interview

http://tvnz.co.nz/all-blacks/mccaw-confident-lineout-woes-over-3622290/video
July 01, 2010

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw speaks to ONE Sport's Andrew Saville ahead of the Tri Nations

McCaw confident lineout woes are over

http://tvnz.co.nz/all-blacks/mccaw-confident-lineout-woes-over-3622290?ref=emailfriend
Thursday July 01, 2010
By tvnz.co.nz's rugby reporter Chris Matthews
Source: ONE Sport

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw is confident that the lineout woes they suffered last year against the World Champion South Africans are a thing of the past.

Last season their set-piece, among other things, was badly exposed against Victor Matfield and co, as they suffered three consecutive defeats in a row.

"I think the set-piece is key and the lineout certainly hindered us last year," McCaw told ONE News.

The problem became so big, so glaring, that the fallout was pronounced.

Isaac Ross, the rookie caller of the 2009 vintage, was spectacularly dropped, with his lack of muscle used as an excuse, Steve Hansen "swapped" coaching resumes and Graham Henry took over with his stepladders in hand.

Now in 2010 the All Blacks have returned to the basics. No longer are we seeing dummy catchers or complicated shimmies - it's just a basic, quick throw to either two or four and the results have been encouraging.

In fact, in the three June Tests, only one lineout has gone amiss as Brad Thorn, Anthony Boric and Tom Donnelley, among others, have received nice, clean ball from Keven Mealamu.

Hansen may have been reinstated as the forwards coach, but the biggest change in the whole operation has been the appointment of Kieran Read as the lineout caller.

Read's influence cannot be underrated here, but McCaw believes that the back-to-basics approach has paid dividends.

"Yeah, we're keeping (the lineout) simple and actually believing in it," McCaw says.
"(Last year) from one week until the next week, everyone started doubting themselves and perhaps that's where it got complicated.
"Whereas (now) you go back to the simple things that work and just making sure you execute it right every time.
"There is going to be the odd one you don't win because that's what happens, but as long as you don't let that hinder the next one and the next one - that's the key.
"Time will tell but I'm pretty sure we've addressed some of those issues and we just have to make sure we get things right once we do it."

That time is drawing nearer with the All Blacks' big first Test of 2010 now less than 10 days away.

Related article :
High ball, lineout focus against Boks
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10655004&pnum=0

MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow Back for a Third Year

http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=54376&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+infonews%2Fall+%28infonews.co.nz+All+news%29
30 June 2010

The All Blacks probably weren't expecting wood sawing, gumboot throwing or waiter racing to be a part of their training schedule this year, but that's exactly what some of the current All Blacks squad will be competing in over the next two months as they travel the country for the MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow.

Now in its third year, the MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow hosts a series of community events where local fans can get up close and personal with some of the current All Blacks and Rugby Legend, Buck Shelford, by competing in rugby challenges including; catching, try-scoring, kicking, passing and lineout skills. Past Roadshows have seen members of the All Blacks squad and Buck visit 24 of New Zealand's cities and towns competing against the fans in the rugby challenges.

However, this year the Roadshow will visit 6 New Zealand towns famous in their own right for some rather unique activities. Waipu, Tokoroa, Taihape, West Coast (Reefton), Akaroa and Naseby will welcome the Roadshow and take on the All Blacks, not only at the Rugby challenges, but also their own local specialties - Caber Toss, Wood Sawing, Gumboot Throwing, Coal Shovelling, Waiter Racing and Curling.

These new local challenges will allow spectators to see some of the All Blacks as they've never seen them before! All Black Captain, Richie McCaw says he's once again delighted to be a part of the MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow.

"This is my third year as a MasterCard ambassador and I always look forward to the Roadshow - it's a chance to meet our fans and get out amongst New Zealand communities. Even though I might be shown up on some of the local challenges this year, I'm proud to be a part of this wonderful opportunity thanks to MasterCard."

All Black Legend, Buck Shelford, says he's particularly looking forward to trying the Caber Toss.
"With my Scottish heritage, you'd think I might have a shot winning, but you never know! Either way it's going to be great fun taking on the locals and the All Blacks at all these new challenges."

Former All Black, Highland Games record holder and 2010 MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow competitor, Richard Guy believes the key to one of the local challenges - the Caber Toss, is to remain focused.

"The key to tossing cabers is balance, you need to control its every move so you can toss accurately."It will be amusing to see amateurs take on this challenge. I think even an All Black will find this sport difficult."

Stuart McKinlay, MasterCard New Zealand Country Manager says the roadshow is exciting for everyone involved, especially with rugby fever building up towards the Rugby World Cup in 2011, for which MasterCard is Worldwide Partner and official payment system.

"The MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow is a great reminder of what the All Blacks mean to our communities. To be able to bring our national heroes up close and personal with some of their biggest fans is such a pleasure. We can't wait to see the local residents take on the All Blacks and we're eagerly anticipating the outcome - let's hope they go easy on them... and by "they" I mean the residents."

For more information visit www.mastercardroadshow.co.nz

Richie McCaw gets in behind Red Socks Day‏

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/3875004/Richie-McCaw-gets-in-behind-Red-Socks-Day

By VICTORIA ROBINSON - Stuff
01/07/2010
LUCKY RED: All Blacks captain Richie McCaw and Weymouth Intermediate students sport red socks as part of Sir Peter Blake Trust's Leadership Week.

It was a flashback to 1995 as All Black captain Richie McCaw donned red socks to speak about leadership to Auckland schoolchildren this morning.

McCaw told the kids at Weymouth Intermediate life could be lonely at the top, and highlighted the importance of leading by example.

"I've got to go out and play well on the rugby field, and if I do that that's the best way to get the rest of the team in behind."

Friday, July 2 is national Red Socks Day, where the country remembers the late Sir Peter Blake's leadership legacy by wearing his famously lucky item of clothing.

Red socks were sported throughout the country in 1995 to support New Zealand's successful America's Cup challenge, which was led by Sir Peter.

McCaw said he believes Sir Peter Blake's legacy was his concern for issues like protection of the environment, not just his success in the sporting arena.

"He was a pretty special New Zealander who wasn't just in yachting, he was in all sorts of things that I think everyone's proud of and inspired by, and that's certainly what's got me inspired."

McCaw told the kids that jealousy and tall poppy syndrome could be a problem for leaders.

"It's always easier to voice negative things, but people aren't very good at voicing the positive and saying well done. I always say to people, 'silence is usually a good thumbs up'. If you're doing a job and nobody says anything, it's usually that you're doing a pretty good job."

He named former All Black captain Todd Blackadder as one of the leaders who he looked up to when he was first starting out in professional rugby.

"Everything he said he was going to do he did. As a new guy in the team that inspired me to be the same."

The event was organised by the Sir Peter Blake Trust and their sponsor Westpac to celebrate Leadership Week.

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All Blacks captain Ritchie McCaw spoke to intermediate students in South Auckland this morning as part of leadership week