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With cap in hand, Graham Henry will be first of the rank in a long line of suitors attempting to sway the thinking of Khoder Nasser, the sports agent representing Sonny Bill Williams.
As the All Blacks coach, Henry holds arguably the premium coaching job in world rugby and is first in line.
Despite Henry cutting a terrifying figure, no-one in their right mind would attempt to push in front of him. This is a man that makes nearly a whole team of All Blacks tremble in their boots.
It’s odd to picture Henry prostrating himself in front of this would be king, however. Henry is a man on a mission.
He is in search of the golden factor – a rugby player that is able to create awe in the opposition and whose physical prowess leaves commentators speechless.
Many believe that Williams potentially has this golden touch.
Dan Carter had it, Giteau thought he had it, the Steyn’s have it (but only in their boots) and perhaps Richie McCaw found it. Jonah Lomu had an abundance of it and Robbie Deans thought O’Connor had it.
Henry’s right to go after Williams. Golden players make oppositions think twice, whether that ends up being a moment of hesitation, or forcing them to kick as a safe option. While scrums may sometimes take five minutes, a game can be won in a second and it’s hesitation that makes those seconds happen.
The All Blacks always have a list of quality players which rise in stature when they don the jersey, however there are few golden players amongst their ranks.
Outside of Williams, there is Victor Vito and Rene Ranger. Players like Guilford and Cruden are also good footballers but the x-factor eludes them. I also suspect that Will Genia possesses a touch of gold as well.
If Henry wants the crown next year, then perhaps he needs to offer gold to the rugby gods.
Williams, though unproven, is a good option to pursue.
Henry also needs to mine his own fields, he needs to bring Vito on-board this year (which is likely anyway) and he needs to play the chance card and get Ranger under his wing.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.