Hugh McGahan: Johns wants a piece of the Anzac

Early in the week there was a declaration by Andrew Johns that he would love to finish his international career in the Anzac test against the Kiwis on May 5. This is how serious the Australians are about revenge for the loss in last year's Tri Nations final.

Even the new Australian coach, Ricky Stuart, instigated a two-day camp with a squad prior to the start of the NRL. Never in the history of the Australian Rugby League has the national squad met so early to start preparations for their representative season. The win by the Kiwis last November in England has frightened the Aussies into knowing that they can now no longer just turn up and win games.

There have been one-off wins by New Zealand over the years but they were few and far between. But last year Brian McClennan and Graham Norton changed the sequence of the win/loss ratio and rocked Australia. It was unprecedented that New Zealand beat them so convincingly in such a short space of time and a reality check hit home. Not only did the players, coaches and administrators wake up to the Kiwi team but the Australian press had to acknowledge the revitalisation of rugby league in the Shaky Isles.

Included in the rumour mill is talk of Ben Kennedy wishing to be selected for Australia for the Anzac test. Combined with Andrew John's declaration, it emphasises the anguish over last year's Kangaroo team. How times have changed. So can we maintain the status quo?

I think we can, under the current regime. Although I am sure that if I was still playing and heard that Andrew Johns was looking to play his last game against us, to bury the ghost of 2005, I wouldn't be happy. He would be the last player I would like to see in the Australian jersey.

It would be like not having to face Wally Lewis in his heyday and believe me when I say that would have made our job so much easier.

In terms of mental strength, not having to worry about players like Lewis or Johns increases the prospect of playing a more attacking game.

I can understand McClennan's perspective of winning against the best team. People will always look at reasons why you won, just as much as they do when you lose. It would always be said the Kiwis only won because Australia's best player Andrew Johns had retired.

Finally, thanks to Selwyn Pearson for the retention of McClennan and I know it is something Selwyn wanted to clear up prior to his stepping down as president.

The passing over of the reins to a new president will be looked upon with glee by the Australian administrators as Selwyn has never given way to his counterparts and has been a thorn in their side.

They will be glad they do not have to suffer Pearson's wry smile. Believe me when I say that it is not a punishment I would make the devil endure, as Selwyn will be subtly rubbing it in while he has the opportunity until his retirement as president.

-HERALD ON SUNDAY