Julian Savea’s ongoing alleged assault case is clearly affecting his form for the All Blacks, according to coach Steve Hansen.
The 22-year-old wing, who burst onto the international stage with 12 tries in nine Tests last year, has struggled to find his best form since details emerged about an alleged domestic incident involving his girlfriend two months ago.
Savea faces a three-month wait to find out if he will be granted diversion and have his charge dropped. On Wednesday his case at Wellington District Court was adjourned until September 18.
A subdued performance in New Zealand’s 23-13 first-Test defeat of France in Auckland was defended by Hansen, who has persisted with the left winger for the second Test in Christchurch on Saturday.
Hansen says it is obvious Savea is distracted by his personal issues.
“If it was me or it was you, it’d be playing on our mind wouldn’t it?” Hansen said.
“It’s just human nature. You don’t let it go until everything’s tidied up.
“I think the public have possibly moved on. The court process is moving through what it needs to do but Julian and the parties involved, they’re still got a bit of work to tidy up.”
Hansen said Savea’s “outstanding” Super Rugby form for the Hurricanes dipped noticeably in the wake of the charge, which attracted heavy media attention.
One week after the alleged assault on April 14, Savea made a tearful public apology, describing his behaviour as wrong.
He has completed an anti-violence course.
“It’s a lot for a young person, or even an older person, to be able to handle,” Hansen said.
“There’s a child involved as well, which makes it even more complicated.
“What we need Julian to do is take that hat off and put his rugby hat on when it’s time to play rugby. As we do with every athlete.
“It’s tough but that’s the consequence of making a mistake, isn’t it? You’ve got to deal with it.”
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