Yeah right! That was my reaction to Liam Barry’s ‘on the record’ explanation for Luke McAlister’s notable omission from North Harbour’s lineup in Tuesday’s match against Tasman. Barry claimed Luke hadn’t had time to “learn the team’s moves.”
Hello, the game is not that complicated.
Especially when it comes to a seasoned campaigner like Luke McAlister with established proficiencies at 10, 12 and 15.
There has to be more to it. And whatever that is, we’re unlikely to know. Nor is it our business.
The seemingly good news is, whatever caused McAlister to go AWOL (which led to his omission) has obviously been resolved, having been named in Harbour’s starting lineup to face Bay of Plenty on Saturday.
In saying that, it’s fairly apparent Luke doesn’t want to be there.
The pain of rejection by All Blacks coach and crew is eating him up, especially since he’s enjoyed Henry’s favor in the past. Not always based on form, I might add.
So word has it, Luke’s looking for an early release from his New Zealand Rugby Union contract so he can cut a track to France – sooner than later. Hardly endearing for his teammates knowing Luke’s loyalties lie elsewhere.
New Zealand Rugby Union bosses clearly feel the same way. No release without paying his dues – preferably in cold hard cash to the tune of $60k. Unlucky Luke’s saying, “no way.”
For that problem, I have a solution that offers three-way benefits.
Ask Sonny Bill Williams for Anthony Mundine’s number. Call Mundine and ask him to negotiate the kind of release that freed Sonny Bill from the jaws of the NRL’s Bulldogs.
The tradeoff for Luke, though, will be a lifetime of undercard obligations for Mundine’s fight-nights.
So McAlister gets advance tickets to France, Mundine gets another poster-boy undercard, and Sonny Bill gets an able replacement when required for All Blacks/Super Rugby duties.
You’re welcome fellers. Glad I could be of assistance.
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.
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