All Blacks' magic? Graham Henry's conditioning seems to be working

Graham Henry's much maligned conditioning programme has received some harsh critics, but it has also provided opportunities for other players.  With most All Blacks not expected to peak until the World Cup, the public seem alarmed at the lack of form of the All Blacks, but the next wave of young stars are now one step closer to making the next step to international duty.

The Crusaders were largely depleted by the missing All Blacks Richie McCaw, Daniel Carter, Chris Jack, Reuben Thorne, Leon MacDonald and Aaron Mauger.  Several players were successfully blooded as a result with Stephen Brett the biggest catch. He may be too good to stay at the Crusaders for next year with the dearth of five-eighths at the moment. Keiran Read had some excellent performances and is surely an ideal replacement to Thorne. Tim Bateman, Isaac Ross and Ben Franks are quality young players who are better off for their experience.

The Hurricanes' loose forwards were the main notable absentees because of the programme. In the forwards Serge Lilo probably gained the most through his experience and is now a legitimate Super 14 player. Thomas Waldrom showed some glimpses on attack, but was sometimes missing on defence.  Hayden Triggs and Hayden Hopgood didn't really get much game time despite the absence of Eaton, Collins, Masoe and Soioalo. John Schwalger, Tone Kopelani and Pelenise helped Tialata to form a solid forward base. In the backs Alby Matthewson is a player of some promise and overtook Chris Smylie as the starting halfback.  He has real 'X Factor'.  David Smith was also introduced at this level and thrived in an inconsistent side. 

David Nucifora's controversial non-selection of All Blacks once they were available was partly due to the form of some new players. Rudi Wulf thrived starting and formed an exciting back three with Howlett and rising star George Pisi. The Blues didn't really blood any other new players.  Their other All Blacks include Kevan Mealamu, who shared time with Witcombe.  Ali Williams struggled for matches with Greg Rawlinson and Troy Flavell rediscovering themselves.  Other players to stand out were either in new positions like Nacewa or established players like Braid and Kaino.