John McBeth On RWC: Rotation Or Not - Do We Still Care?

In the long buildup to the Rugby World Cup, the All Black fans were demanding the selectors pick the top team for the entire tournament.

They argued that the only way an event such as this can be won is by constantly putting the same fifteen on the field for every game.

But Graham Henry planned not to do that and so far the indications are that he is correct. The team which played France appeared to be close to that 'top' selection, but who of us really knows for sure? One thing's for certain, the fifteen who took the field at Eden Park had been brought to the boil with perfect timing and they left every doubting fan thrilled and confident of the future.

The calls for a consistent selection have abated. Perhaps now those vociferous fans who claim to know better than the selectors will admit that maybe, just maybe, Henry and his mates might have a cunning plan. Now, it seems, nobody really cares which players front up against Canada in the final pool match. Maybe they now appreciate that a few changes can be made without lessening the performance.

Whatever, it's amazing what a convincing victory can do to the attitude of New Zealand rugby fans.

By the way, what's going on with Steve Hansen when the camera focusses on the coaches box at matches? Last weekend in the French match, Hansen, nearly every time he realsied the TV camera was on him, rubbed a finger down his nose. Is this some sort of signal to a mate?

Let's know what you're up to Shag!

Broadcaster John McBeth will be commenting on the Rugby World Cup for Scoop.co.nz from time to time - as he sees fit. John's website is at http://johnmcbeth.co.nz/

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