Northland v Southland
Northland rugby captain Glenn Taylor does not believe a top NPC campaign would put him back in an All Black jersey.
A veteran of 111 games for the Cambridge blues, Taylor represented New Zealand in 1992 and 1996. He played six games, including one test, for the All Blacks.
During
a long career, the 2m lock and Chiefs captain has this year has impressed many with his outstanding leadership and loyalty to his province. A solid Super 12 with the under-performing Chiefs put him back in the frame for national selection.
However, Taylor said yesterday that his chances of returning to international rugby on the end-of-season tour of Italy and France were slim.
"I was disappointed not to make [the New Zealand A team] and obviously I would love to go on that trip, but I think I have fallen out of favour," he said.
Instead Taylor, aged 29, is looking forward to another NPC with his Northland team, beginning today against Southland in Invercargill.
"It's exciting, the NPC is a great tournament," he said. "We have got a few younger players, but we have also got some older heads, too."
Weighing on Taylor's mind was Northland's poor recent record in Invercargill - three losses out of three games since 1996.
"We know it will be tough down here, it always is."
Former Southland captain Simon Culhane has urged his team to be patient and shut public expectations out.
"This is a new-look team with talented young players who have not all played together much at this level," the former All Blacks first five-eighths said. "It won't come together easily. It never does, but players shouldn't be distracted too much by public expectations. They must simply give it their best shot."
Southland fans were encouraged by a new feeling of good team spirit, which should be taken on to the playing paddock, Culhane said.
"It's a case of going in a bit blind. But Northland usually like to throw good ball around. That's a big part of their game. They've got exciting players and they love to get their forwards involved out wide in support roles, too."
Culhane said the Northland style was similar to Otago's expansive ploys.
"I hope Southland can get them on the back foot up front."
- NZPA
