Ian,
With Richie McCaw set to return to Super 15 soon, who should Todd Blackadder choose to move to the bench? Does he keep the experience of George Whitelock out on the field, or the young, up-and-coming Matt Todd? Whitelock suits the No 6 role more, but what's the problem with having two ball fetching No 7s out there?
Chris
It is great having these selection debates and in this situation with the way both players have been performing I would go with George Whitelock in the No 6 jersey.
This brings a better balance to the Crusaders' loose forward mix as George is taller and heavier, and to win this year's title I feel our New Zealand teams will need to front physically against the South African sides hence my desire for the bigger man.
Whitelock's work rate around the tackle area, his defending and ability to slow down the ruck ball allowing the Crusaders to realign defensively, also suggests he should start in favour of another ball fetcher. What I wouldn't like to see is the world's best open-side flanker Richie McCaw playing in that No 6 jersey.
Kamo, there is a theory that for New Zealand rugby to be strong Auckland rugby needs to be strong. Do you agree?
Dominic