Nonu ready to fight for centre slot despite the arrival of Williams

IMPRESSIVE as the New Zealand starting 15 for today’s Test against Ireland undoubtedly is, the true barometer of the All Blacks’ current strength will lie on the Aviva Stadium benches as well as on armchairs dotted around the North and South Islands.

Graham Henry’s lavish riches extend to all departments but the jewels left languishing in his vault of backline talent demonstrate just how flush the tourists are as another World Cup approaches.

When Marius Jonkers gives the green light this evening, men like Joe Rokocoko and Sitiveni Sivivatu will be kicking their heels on the sideline. That is 111 caps and 74 caps held in reserve right there. And there is more, much more.