Cup runneth over for some young fans

Frank Bunce, left, Will Partington, 8, and Christian Cullen sign a message of support to the All Blacks. Photo / Doug Sherring

Don't mention the Cup - or more accurately the fact we haven't won the World Cup since 1987.

Rugby fans, including former All Blacks, who have signed a special book of support for the All Blacks ahead of this year's showcase in New Zealand are being careful not to put pressure on the players.

The book, called Bound in Black, was in Auckland's Aotea Square on Friday and former All Blacks Frank Bunce, who played in the 1995 World Cup final, and Christian Cullen wrote their own messages before helping the fans.

"It was hard; we didn't want to put pressure on them - we could have written, 'It's been 24 years'," Bunce laughed.

They eventually signed: "We're a couple of guys who have been there, done that. We know what it's like, we'd like to wish you all the best."

Supporters were taking the same line, keeping their messages simple but honest.

Eight-year-old Will Partington was first in line after the rugby stars. He wrote: "Work hard, good luck."

The Milford Primary School pupil idolises Richie McCaw and Dan Carter. "I'm so happy and very excited ... I thought it through for an hour," Partington said of his message of advice.

Simi Fukava, of Dilworth School, was excited to celebrate his 12th birthday by meeting the former players and signing the book.

* The Bound by Black book will tour Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch until June or you can send your support message online at http://www.coke.co.nz/boundbyblack/index.html.