Many commentators are predicting a whitewash this weekend at Eden Park. Thankfully Steve Hansen isn't one of these people. In fact, this week, Steve - the remaining member of the '3 Wise Men' still to be involved with the All Blacks (and as Head Coach) seemed to be the most sensible when he informed media that the All Blacks needed to respect The Wallabies - and they did! On the other hand both Wayne Smith and Sir Graham Henry predicted a whitewash. However, one thing is for sure, the Wallabies will be hurting from Sydney and will want to make amends.
Deans has taken a verbal bashing this week and a noose looks like its starting to be made to be put around his head. Despite Alan Jone's ridiculous comments about Deans not being an international coach, Deans has done a great job with the Wallabies - they are after all number 2 in the world. If Deans does in fact succeed in getting the All Blacks job in 2016, he will be able to prove his case then, if not sooner.
What this episode of Deans coaching Australia has proven is that a foreign coach never really quite makes it. And that's because, you may have all the talent in the World but to win BIG games, you also need heart - something the AB's used to win the final of last years cup, despite being spent after a huge semi-final against Australia and down to their 4th 1st 5 - a feat probably no other country could have coped with. Furthermore and often overlooked, Deans coaching Australia is akin to Campese coaching the All Blacks - it shouldn't happen. Deans is as Red and Black as they come and has All Blacks in his blood. He has a stand named after him in Christchurch for crying out loud! Enormously talented - Dean's skills would be best served in NZ rugby or with a Scotland - who despite beating the Wallabies this year will still fail to fire under their current coaching regime.
Back to the Bledisloe Cup, expect the All Blacks to win by 15 and under. But look to the Wallabies to prove spring a surprise including the introduction of new no.7 Michael Hooper who looks like he could be the goods.
