Rugby: All Blacks switching focus for halfback

Alby Mathewson (left) and Kahn Fotuali'i may get promoted in the pecking order. Photos / Herald on Sunday, Christchurch Star

The All Black selectors have changed their halfback ideas after poring through footage of the rule changes in this year's Super 14.

As Springbok Fourie du Preez and Wallaby playmaker Will Genia have showcased their talents even more under the law alterations, the All Black selectors have reassessed their ideas.

That may promote Alby Mathewson and Kahn Fotuali'i in the pecking order as they challenge last year's tourists Jimmy Cowan, Brendon Leonard and Andy Ellis.

National backline strategist Wayne Smith had clear messages for the halfback contenders while former All Black great Dave Loveridge believes Jimmy Cowan and Mathewson are best suited to the modern game.

"The key point is, if you are just going to pass or kick it you are not going to cut the mustard," Smith said.

"You have to have more to your game now. That is critical. So it is a good time for running halfbacks."

Smith revealed that the national selectors had worked with Cowan in recent weeks, encouraging him to introduce a stronger running edge to his game. Mathewson had not had similar tutelage but felt his game had progressed after switching to regular work with the Blues.

He played against Munster on the All Blacks' tour in 2008 but missed out on national selection last year.

That disappointment and the uncertainty of being in Super 14 and provincial competition with Piri Weepu gave Mathewson the impetus to change allegiance.

"It has helped starting every game this year," he said from South Africa.

"I am loving all the game time and each week I just try and start fresh and aim to be consistent. I think that is happening and that is bringing the best out in me. I have no regrets at all about changing teams."

Mathewson revealed that the Blues scarcely spoke for half an hour after their latest loss to the Cheetahs.

"It was probably our worst performance this year because all their tries were off our mistakes," he said. "It left us with a hollow feeling."

The 24-year-old Mathewson left Hastings for Wellington after school where he received some tutelage from Loveridge in their rugby academy.

"I had a few sessions with Dave. I got the chance to go and work with him and jumped at the chance. I have not seen him this year since I shifted but he was a great help.

"One of my goals coming to the Blues was to try and play well each week and on the whole I have been happy with that. That's all I can do. I have managed to start every game and that helps your confidence.

"I like to mix my game up, I like to run a bit and you get knocked about a bit when you do that."

He had not heard from the All Black selectors but had noticed the consistent work from Genia, du Preez and Ruan Pienaar and seen how effective they were with the variety in their games.

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The Blues have had their training this week interrupted by torrential rain which has also caused power cuts at their hotel. They will name their side to play the Lions tonight.