As an ex-patriot living in Australia, I have seen some epic encounters between the mighty All Blacks and the Green and Gold.  Today was not one of those times.

This low point started several months ago when the NZRU contradicted its own 'unwritten policy' of replacing the head coach when they did not WIN the World Cup. Griz Wylie was replaced when he did not achieve this in 1991 World Cup, as was Laurie Mains for not defeating the South Africans, John Hart for the debacle against France and finally John Mitchell for the early exit in Australia in 2003. Each of these coaches at least took their teams to the semi-finals or finals before failing to achieve the optimal outcome. 

Graham Henry did not make a final - indeed he did not achieve a semi-final before exiting the 2007 World Cup. Yet all was forgiven for this indiscretion and rewarded with another four years as head coach. The inconsistency shown by the NZRU further insulted the process of not having “the best man for the job” by by-passing Robbie Deans (whose winning record could not be ignored) to retain Henry. This in turn allowed Australia to capitalise from our ‘poor management’ and pluck Deans across the Tasman.

If this was where the ‘stupidity’ stopped, it could be forgiven, but since the reappointment and ‘selection inconsistencies’, the assumption of picking players on form has been thrown out the window. A case in point is the continual absence of Piri Weepu, who showed his worth and consistency by leading the NZ Maori to win the 2008 Pacific Cup. I am astounded how a player could go from being the No.1 half back in New Zealand for several years and then be ignored the next year.

This was very evident in tonight’s performance of Andrew Ellis when clearing the scrums and rucks. Additionally, his inability to assist in the ruck to ensure the ball does not turn over has reduced the time required for the class of Dan Carter. Add to this the inclusion of Sione Lauaki and his inability to hold the ball or make any impact when coming on. I thought his role was to make damaging runs and cut through the line, this did not happen.

This could all be seen as sour grapes from someone living across the ditch loving the All Blacks and the “Mana” associated with the silver fern on that beautiful black jersey. But I am terrified that the best man for the job of NZ winning a World Cup is now planning to help Australia spoil the party in our own back yard. Am I WRONG?