Steve Hansen: I would like to say congrats to the 31 guys. They have worked extremely hard.
"It's a proud moment and the pinnacle of New Zealand rugby. There are guys who will be disappointed but we need them to get over that. We will need them in the future."
Richie McCaw is on the mic now: I'm hugely excited as I know all the guys are. There's a long road ahead but the chance to go and compete at the World Cup fills us full of energy."
That was short and sharp from McCaw. And it looks like it's pretty much over now. Time to discuss the selections. Stick around, the Herald will have full analysis of all the key decisions.
All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said: “The selectors would like to congratulate all those players selected for the Rugby World Cup squad. It’s a huge honour to represent your country on the international stage. It’s the pinnacle for any New Zealand rugby player and we know the players and their families will be immensely proud of what they have achieved, as are we."
"Conversely, we know that there are some players who are disappointed. We are a tight-knit family and it’s always difficult when players miss out. Those players did everything asked of them and the selections are more a reflection of the player depth that we have, and the mix of players required to effectively manage a 31-strong squad at what is a unique Tournament with a unique set of replacement player rules."
“I’m sure it won’t be the last time a lot of the players who have missed out play for the All Blacks. As we have seen in previous Rugby World Cups, anything can happen with injuries, and we want those players to be ready to step in if needed."
“To the fans I would like to say: our attitude going into this Rugby World Cup is not a case of expecting it, but one of making it happen. The Cup isn’t ours. We are not defenders; like everyone else, we are contenders. We have to earn the right to win it through world-class performances."
“In doing so, we have to do something that no-one has ever done before. But that is a hugely exciting challenge and one I believe the team will rise to. With this in mind, we believe we have selected players with the right mix of experience, x-factor, determination and mental strength. This is an exciting and talented group of players who are looking to do something that hasn’t been done before, and make New Zealanders proud.”
No disrespect to SBW, but, I would not have picked him! I would have chosen Charles P or cory jane or Izzy over him. We need fulltime rugby players who can do the business not those who are more hot than cold and those who can and have performed without freezing on the big stage!
The Not Going XV
Strange that they would take not one but 2 average defenders in Nehe and Waisake to a world cup. Jane or Piutau shouldve been there to help out Bender at the back. Gameplan for AB's run the ball, gameplan for everyone else, dont give it to them. Too predictable Hansen.
