The unwanted All Blacks XV

Israel Dagg in action for the All Blacks. Photo / Getty

The All Blacks are warm favourites for the World Cup, but they'd be smoking hot if there was a Webb Ellis Reserve Grade.

When it comes to depth, the All Blacks are like the James Cameron submarine of world rugby. We dig beneath the waves goodbye to name a damn good team that was left behind.

Israel Dagg
Gets a bad rap, and also does one. Immaculate reception. Punt returner. Would still walk into many sides although his running is on the wane.

Charles Piutau
Very unlucky to miss out. Comfortable and dynamic in tests from the word go. Bucked the system and got bucked out of the World Cup.

Charlie Ngatai
Maori captaincy reveals his status. Has the mind and the body. Great prospect at 12 or 13.

Ryan Crotty
The glue. Not a blockbuster like Ma'a Nonu but still with plenty of thrust. Groomed as a Conrad Smith copy.

Cory Jane
A chance to pay tribute to a magical, playmaking wing loved by all. One of those players who redefined a position.

Lima Sopoaga
The All Black No. 10 in waiting. Should have gone to the World Cup. Has clung on to reap the rewards.

Brad Weber
Zippy Aaron Smith type. Well short of proven but might have been on the plane with a bit more experience.

Elliot Dixon
A wild throwback who will take the All Blacks forward. Has major cult status potential.

Matt Todd
Terrific technician, plenty of energy. A touch small but still a class act.

Brad Shields
Starting to deliver on his major potential. Still refining and defining his style but getting there.

James Broadhurst
Skilled lock deserves more of a chance than he got in Johannesburg. Might need to hit the weights.

Patrick Tuipulotu
A huge prospect. Power athlete. A superstar in the making. Hope the hip operation has been successful.

Nepo Laulala
A big mover, including to the Chiefs. Has it all...and could start pushing Owen Franks for his starting place.

Hika Elliot
Should have nailed a World Cup spot. Great in the open, needs to keep plugging away in the tight. Might need new selectors too.

Joe Moody
New Zealand rugby's mystery man. All Black camp specialist. Trying to oust Ben Franks as the guy who plays both sides.