Rugby: Waldrom downplays rift with coach

Thomas Waldrom says his decision to shift to the Crusaders was based on lack of game time with the Hurricanes. Photo / Getty Images

Wellington loose forward Thomas Waldrom is downplaying talk a frosty relationship with Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper has led to his transfer to the Crusaders.

After being a regular on the Hurricanes bench for the past few seasons Waldrom should finally get his shot at regular Super 14 game time with the Crusaders next year.

He says his decision to leave the Hurricanes is based on the fact All Black No 8 Rodney So'oialo is also with the franchise, rather than him not seeing eye to eye with Cooper.

Waldrom says it was more about last year, where he was frustrated about being on the bench. He says Cooper understands where he is coming from.

The Wellington side to play Southland in Friday night's first Air New Zealand Cup semifinal is named tomorrow.

- NEWSTALK ZB