Sean Fitzpatrick: Henry's respect is overdue

This is being written before the All Black-Irish test so there is time yet for someone to play their way into the All Black team to face England on Saturday. But I do not expect many changes to what most people would regard as the All Blacks' top line-up, as featured in the Tri Nations this year.

Graham Henry should choose his strongest team to play England, although Graham has surprised everyone so much with his selections that I wouldn't bet on it.

However, I can't really see there being too many selection issues that would surprise or concern me much. Byron Kelleher or Piri Weepu at halfback? I'd be happy with either. I do think, though, that Byron had a strong game against Wales, with the exception of the pass he should have given to Tana Umaga with the line open.

Anton Oliver or Keven Mealamu at hooker? Again, New Zealand rugby fans can be pleased that we have such good options available.

The real interest might centre on centre - who Graham selects to play with Tana. Will he play him at centre, outside Aaron Mauger, or will he play him at second-five with Conrad Smith at 13?

Personally I like the look of Smith at centre. I was talking to England and Lions centre Will Greenwood and he told me that Smith was his player of the test against Wales. Will was raving about the clever lines Smith runs, and the clever touches and unexpected things he does.

Like the precise kick ahead for Daniel Carter's second try - a piece of clever, surprising play which was instinctive.

I think, too, that trying him at centre will help the All Blacks develop some depth.

They are also obviously trying Ma'a Nonu out there against Ireland and it will be interesting to assess how he goes - but I would tend towards Conrad Smith if they are looking for an option at 13.

But you can't talk about All Black selections without shaking your head in awe at Graham Henry's fresh XV for this morning's match. It is a measure of how well Henry and his team are doing that the move has been greeted up here with respect rather than any suggestion the All Blacks are disrespecting the Irish.

But I think, too, that a lot of Britons have realised what they lost when they let Graham go as a coach. I think a lot of them based their opinion on him around the Lions team he coached in Australia.

Now most people are realising that he was the wrong choice for that job but has shown what he can do with this All Black team.

But, of course, if they should happen to drop a test, we'll see the knives come out.