KEY POINTS:
Ma'a Nonu has revealed the dumping of rotation in the All Blacks made his decision to stay in New Zealand easier.
The blockbusting midfielder left for Hong Kong last night with the rest of the 35 strong touring party ahead of Saturday's Bledisloe Cup test.
Before leaving, Nonu confirmed he is staying in New Zealand until the end of 2011. He has played all 10 tests so far this year and says that made re-signing easier.
Nonu says in previous years he had played three or four tests, but this year he has played them all and is hoping it will continue.
Last year he missed out on the squad for the World Cup but knew if he worked hard he could force his way back into the side.
Meanwhile, Scott Waldrom is reflecting on his rise to the All Blacks.
Eighteen months ago, the Taranaki openside was unwanted by national sevens coach Gordon Tietjens and was not playing in the Super 14. He admits at 26, he almost gave the game away.
Waldrom says he had packed on the weight and was eating plenty of KFC so it is quite something that he has ended up in the All Blacks.
He says the last 48 hours has been crazy as he has rushed around organising himself for a five week tour.
The All Blacks arrive in Hong Kong later this morning, with the team for Saturday to be revealed this afternoon.
- NEWSTALK ZB
