Rugby: Brooke blames players for Welsh decline

Former All Black number eight Zinzan Brooke has backed under-fire Wales coach Graham Henry and laid the blame for the country’s indifferent form at the feet of the players.

Brooke, who was coached by Henry during his career with Auckland, said he felt for the man who helped guide the province to back-to-back Super 12 titles in the late 1990s.

‘‘I have to sympathise with my old coach and friend - Graham Henry,’’ Brooke said.

Brooke said the criticism that had been directed at Henry after the 30-16 defeat by Argentina at the Millennium Stadium was harsh.

‘‘Comments have been made to allow the Welsh players to play with freedom and flair,’’ said Brooke.

‘‘But, in reality, while there are some good individuals, collectively I feel they are not up to international standards.

‘‘When Graham first arrived he was soon hailed as the ‘Great Redeemer’.

‘‘The novelty of having an experienced coach was always going to wear off,’’ he added.

Brooke said a coach could only do so much and it was up to the players to perform.

‘‘It is now down to the players to just knuckle down and make Wales the great rugby nation that I remember.’’