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I think we all know that Blues fans, while commiserating over a few departures, are getting enthusiastic about the prospects ahead of the 2012 Super Rugby season.
While some are leaving the side, like Rocokoco, McAlister and Brett, some others are staying, like Ali Williams, Woodcock and Boric.
The pre-season enthusiasm comes from the newbies; Ma’a Nonu, Piri Weepu and the possibility of Sonny Bill Williams. The ‘possibility’ of gaining SBW is enough to excite any Super Rugby fan.
With these notable changes to the side, trusting that they will all gel together, it was shaping up to be a very promising season for the boys in blue.
So why have hopes, dreams, enthusiasm and prospects gone up in flames? The reason is Stephen Donald.
His name alone makes my blood boil. So the question is why? Why would Donald be the answer to Stephen Bretts’ departure?
Why take on current and starting All Blacks, alongside a ‘has-been’?
Why would any franchise take on someone who is not wanted elsewhere? Donald has been with the Chiefs for seven Super seasons and in and out of the All Blacks, and now he’s not wanted – by either.
Anyone with any common sense would come to the conclusion that he has had his day and is not capable of bringing anything new and exciting to the game.
Has Donald heard of the saying ‘quit while you’re ahead’?
The fate of the Blues’ success in 2012 can very well lie in the hands of this man, as we all know the first five-eighth is very much the driver of the game. Is he up to the challenge?
Statistics would suggest no; strongly.
Maybe the Blues staff are hopeful they can re-program his rugby repertoire, completely.
I suggest a “How to play Rugby 2011” of any description. Or maybe, they will continue what they always do – constantly change the players within the team, year after year, with hope of finding the dream team.
This is obviously instead of doing what coaching staff normally does, such as coaching, teaching and mentoring.
So good luck to the Blues for 2012, but until then, only anxious and apprehensive thoughts will remain.
To Stephen Donald; history will show you’ve got one season to prove yourself (again, I suggest the how-to).
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.