I got back on Tuesday, having spent nearly 3 weeks in South Africa following the Lions. Notwithstanding the series loss, I have to say that it was some of the best rugby I have seen in years (especially the 2nd test) and an absolute privilege to be there.

One has to wonder, however, how good would the Boks be with a good manager?

I got back on Tuesday, having spent nearly 3 weeks in South Africa following the Lions. Notwithstanding the series loss, I have to say that it was some of the best rugby I have seen in years (especially the 2nd test) and an absolute privilege to be there.

One has to wonder, however, how good would the Boks be with a good manager?

agreed, the Lions did themselves proud. I thought they had the 2nd game, but that Morne Styne is a match winner and came on at the right time.

about a good manager, im wondering that also about the All Blacks we passed up Robbie Deans and kept Henry

I agree that Deans is a tremendous coach, but I think the strength in the AB's coaching setup is having all 3 outstanding coaches - they all bring something to the party.

I have to say also that the AB's recent lacklustre form seems to me to be more down to those on the pitch rather than the coaches.

I agree that Deans is a tremendous coach, but I think the strength in the AB's coaching setup is having all 3 outstanding coaches - they all bring something to the party.

I have to say also that the AB's recent lacklustre form seems to me to be more down to those on the pitch rather than the coaches.

agree pretty much, but the coaches need to cop some blame,eg they rushed back into the side Luke McAlister, a player who didnt have much top level rugby this season. He played poorly in that first French Test, and gave away the intercept try. Hes still out of form IMHO and shouldnt have been picked. Most of the NZ papers questioned his spot before the first French test. Most ABs were ill prepared and the French played well.

Im sure we will do better as the experienced players come back from injury, but from what ive seen so far this year, its been a dismal performance. Hopefully, it will be a wake up call.