Australians laugh off spying claims by NZ

AUSTRALIAN attack coach Scott Johnson mocked New Zealand claims the Wallabies were attempting to spy on their training sessions yesterday by turning up to a team announcement dressed in camouflage clothing.

Johnson also wore a t-shirt with “paranoia is curable” on the back and “may I sit here” printed on the front.

Asked about spying claims that have prompted New Zealand to install security guards at their training sessions in a Brisbane high school, Johnson said: “I think we have bigger things to worry about.”

Meanwhile, New Zealand centre Aaron Maugher has denied the All Blacks’ new haka is offensive because it culminates with what appears to be a throat-slitting gesture.

Maugher said when the All Blacks drew their hands across their throats and grimaced in the traditional Maori war dance they were actually making an ancient gesture to transfer energy into their bodies.

“It’s pretty knackering doing the haka,” he said. “At the end of it you’re pretty knackered and that is sort of revitalising the soul and the system before you get into the game.”

Maugher said the All Blacks decided to use a new version of the haka last year because they were concerned the old version had become too commercialised.