So,what happens now to our non-Maori players?

The first All Blacks squad of the season has been named,along with the NZ Maori squad.But I have been looking these past few days for the New Zealand 'A' squad and cant find it!

So,what happens now to our non-Maori players who are on the fringe of All Black selection but who now have no pathway to push further for selection?Unlike those in the Maori squad such as luke McAlister,Corey Flynn and Hosea Gear,these non-Maori players are expected to impress the All Black selectors with their ability to shine at club level,hardly a level to gauge the abilities of readiness for test match rugby.

And who are these non-Maori players who are disadvantaged?

Jason Rutledge the Highlanders hooker for one.John Afoa.Josh Beckhuis.John Schwalger.Chris Jack.George Whitelock.Alby Mathewson.Kahn Fotuali'i.Brendan Leonard.Andy Ellis.Robbie Robinson.Colin Slade.Ryan Crotty.Robbie Fruean.Rene Ranger.Rudi Wulf.Paul Williams.Tim Nanai-Williams,just to name a few off the top off my head.

Surely the NZRU could send this NZ 'A' side off to the Churchill Cup,or arrange some games against our Pacific neighbours,OR,surprise surprise,a 'test' match against Australia 'A'.

Now dont call me racist either! I'm all in favour of our Maori side and I cant wait to see them sink their teeth into the Poms,but lets be fair on ALL our players.


Straight Shooter-telling it like it is