New Zealand captain Richie McCaw insists he has no intention of changing his style of play despite claims he spends too much time trying to influence officials.

Bob Dwyer, Australia's 1991 World Cup-winning coach, recently said that McCaw effectively refereed Test matches he played in and insisted there is one law for New Zealand's openside flanker and one for every other player.

But McCaw, who will lead the All Blacks against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, said: "I don't even worry about it any more. I go into games believing I am doing what is the right thing. You do what you are allowed to.

"The breakdown is really simple when you look at the laws. But because it happens all at once, the referee is only able to look at one guy - he can't see everything.

"That is why I don't envy referees. They have got the power there, and you have got to adapt to how they are refereeing it quickly.

"If you do the best you can, you can be effective. The ruck is quite simple if you get it right. If you get across the advantage line, it's simple to see.

"When it becomes more of a wrestle, it turns into a bit of a lottery. You help yourself out by going forward."

McCaw will skipper New Zealand for a third time against Wales this weekend, with the All Blacks targeting their 20th successive victory since losing 13-8 in Cardiff 55 years ago.

After disposing of Scotland and Ireland without conceding a try, McCaw and company are clear favourites to successfully complete the third stage of a potential grand slam tour.

But the skipper believes the Six Nations champions have a back-row capable of making it a gruelling contest.

"I have got a lot of respect for the Wales back row, especially Martyn Williams. He has been around a long time," McCaw said.

"The fella at number eight (Andy Powell) is a big man, pretty good with ball in hand. As is the case with all good sides, if their front five functions, they have got the ability to run amok.

"Winning the Six Nations isn't easy. Wales have always had the ability.

"They can counter-attack pretty well, if you give them space, and score tries. I think they have shown that."

New Zealand hooker Corey Flynn has been ruled out of the Wales clash and next weekend's match with England after suffering a fractured left arm and will be replaced on the bench by Hikawera Elliott.

All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson said: "Corey complained of soreness yesterday, and an X-ray in Cardiff yesterday evening confirmed that he has suffered a fracture to his left forearm."

Elsewhere, Tony Woodcock will start at loosehead prop against Wales after avoiding a ban following his disciplinary hearing in Dublin last night.

Woodcock was cited for striking an opponent with his hand during New Zealand's 22-3 win against Ireland last weekend.

A decision on the All Blacks tighthead position is still to be made, with Neemia Tialata currently recovering from a viral infection.

If Tialata is ruled unfit, then Auckland's John Afoa will wear the number three shirt.

AFP

Back to Home

Print