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Last Updated: Friday, 17 November 2006, 08:59 GMT
Zinzan Brooke column
Zinzan Brooke

All Blacks legend

England have now lost seven in a row under Andy Robinson - maybe it's in his contract he can only be sacked if he's lost nine in a row.

England have got all sorts of problems - the players need leadership and direction and it's quite obvious with the way they are playing that they are not getting it.

I really can't see England beating South Africa

I was really not surprised that they lost to Argentina.

A lot of people seem to forget about the Pumas but they showed they deserve a chance in either the Tri-Nations or the Six Nations - they have more than earned a position.

I was delighted for Agustin Pichot, who is a great captain and a great player, and he got his reward for a lot of hard work.

But I think it's going to get worse before it gets better for England.

I have to say I really can't see them beating South Africa - they need a big performance but I don't see it coming.

I wouldn't want to be the coach of either side at the moment.

Jake White's under a huge amount of pressure but it's a desperate situation for both teams and Andy Robinson is probably more desperate than White.

The contrast with Graham Henry couldn't be more stark

Last weekend, France played a style of rugby which suited New Zealand but you have to give them credit for the way they attacked and defended.

Ma'a Nonu
Ma'a Nonu plays at outside centre for the All Blacks this week
When you're playing in France it's always a difficult game but they caught the French hopping.

They have their backs to the wall now and will be hoping to bounce back this Saturday.

As a New Zealander I know better than anyone that France can, but the last couple of meetings we have put over 40 points on them and I can't see them recovering to win this week.

Henry's selection for the second Test is pretty understandable - he has only made a few changes this time as he is formalising a team for the next 10 months.

It is quite clear from their selection policy that they are going to try and smash it up at inside centre, with Ma'a Nonu handed the number 12 shirt ahead of Aaron Mauger and Luke McAlister.

I'm not sure Nonu has the passing skills of the other two, so I guess he'll be hitting a few balls up.

I have to say I'm surprised - I liked the look of McAlister in the 12 shirt as it gives you both a kicking and distribution option.

I'm expecting another big game from Jerry Collins. He is very physical and repelled the French at will last week. His defence was just immense.



SEE ALSO
All Blacks omit Mauger for France
14 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
All Blacks rise 'down to England'
13 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
NZ performance 'one of the best'
12 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
France 3-47 New Zealand
11 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
Zinzan Brooke column
10 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
All Blacks will get better - Lomu
08 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
Henry plays down NZ superiority
06 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
England 20-41 New Zealand
05 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
Zinzan Brooke column
03 Nov 06 |  Rugby Union
Zinzan Brooke column
06 Sep 06 |  Rugby Union


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