KEY POINTS:
To a related matter ... a perceptive group of All Black supporters have alerted the nation to the fact that the decline of the team's performance dates from the disappearance of Carl Hayman's beard.
Urgent representations reportedly have been made to the now not-so-rugged front rower, but to no avail. He appears to have given this appeal as much attention as he gives referees who claim to know who collapsed the scrum. What can be done?
The same supporters have come up with an idea with merit, whether or not it moves him: we could all grow a Hayman. Let every male who cares what may happen at the Rugby World Cup put his razor away for the next six to 12 weeks, depending on how far the All Blacks go. This sort of bristling support could make all the difference.
Sportsmen evidently think so. Temporarily unshaven faces abound among the competitors at top events in many fields, and the superstition is well known to rugby. But Hayman apart, let's not put this on the players. They are, we hope, doing enough for the cause; this will be a rare and wonderful, if itchy, opportunity to play our part.
For once participation in a campaign undertaken in our name need not be merely vicarious. We will know as our beards grow that we are suffering for the prize. Every day we, and the women who love us, will feel the prickle of endeavour, the social difficulties of a fuzzy face, the barely concealed amusement of those who will not understand.
Many, especially the young, will need to start without delay. Others might enjoy a few more clean-shaven weeks but be warned, by the time the games begin, a struggling bit of stubble will deserve no respect. The call has gone out, the hour is at hand, let Haymans bloom.
