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The New Zealand All Blacks - Source: ONE Sport -
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All Black coach, Graham Henry, has stated it was "tough" to decide upon his first five eighth for the opening Investec Tri-Nations match against the Wallabies this weekend in Auckland.
I venture to suggest it was nowhere near as difficult as it might have been if his two prominent number 10's, Donald and McAlister, were still unfit. This appeared likely to be the case only a few days ago.
At least there was a choice.
By my previous blogs on this topic, you'll not be surprised to know that I'm quite comfortable with the selectors' decision to put their faith in the Chiefs player.
Stephen Donald occasionally gives us glimpses of superb first five play, but is no Daniel Carter and he has so far failed to consistently display all the qualities required to control an important test match. Yet there seems less risk with Stephen Donald.
Risk is not something that would necessarily concern the All Blacks before a test, but because there is doubt about this team's ability at the moment, it does become a factor. We do not yet know if the All Blacks have managed to overcome and rid themselves of all the ills which troubled them against France and Italy.
If they haven't, they will fail against the Wallabies.
Composure vital
Therefore it is vital to have a clear-thinking and composed director at first five. Stephen Donald appeals as that player, especially as McAlister fell short of displaying these requirements against Italy.
Another reason that I feel comfortable with the choice is that Henry called on Daniel Carter to spend time with the first fives last week. This might just have turned things in Donald's favour.
It has been reported that his on-field communication was much more effective in training after the Carter visit, and that alone is a big plus.
Maybe too, Carter passed on a few goalkicking tips, because this is one area in which Donald needs to gain more consistency - although it must be remembered the conditions in his most recent test were appalling, and even Carter would probably have struggled.
But while most of the attention has again been focussed on the player in-between Cowan and Nonu, he can only be totally effective if the players in front of him are up to the task. Of far greater importance than Donald's selection is the question of whether or not the All Black pack will be capable of winning enough possession against Australia.
Their inability to dictate to Italy was a worry, but now with a pack which contains six of that which helped overwhelm Australia in Auckland twelve months ago, we should be justified in expecting much improvement.
That is the area in which we should be concentrating our attention. The forwards must be much, much better in every part of the game - scrums, breakdowns, defence, ball presentation - the lot.
If the forwards produce an emphatic performance, then perhaps we can snugly sit back and criticise the first five.
Do you agree with John McBeth? Share your thoughts on the All Blacks chances on our messageboard below
Add a Comment:
Post new commentwarrior said on 2009-07-18 @ 14:32 NZDT:
I think its the best team we have had all year, cowan is the best halfback and smith is by far the best center we have and good to see corey jane has been promoted above joe on the wing. Richie is back and he will command the boys to the win.
Cann River Bob said on 2009-07-15 @ 17:46 NZDT:
The AB's have never lost a game when Richie and Conrad both start - not one. Nothing will change on Saturday, with these two conductors running the orchestra.
tails24 said on 2009-07-15 @ 14:18 NZDT:
All three of the teachers pets missing - Toeava, Rokocoko & McAllister; unbelievable we might now have a chance.
Piglet said on 2009-07-15 @ 13:31 NZDT:
McAlister needed to be dumped - he's way too flakey to play against the Aussies. Do we have a chance? Sadly no, but I would so love to proved wrong
Laurie Reid said on 2009-07-15 @ 12:19 NZDT:
If it rains we will be fine. Aussies always come with hopes of playing a fast game but are invariably swamped by the Black wave