Grand Slam tour programme depends on Welsh response

New Zealand rugby bosses are still hopeful of the All Blacks embarking on their first Grand Slam tour since 1978.

The All Blacks looked to have been denied a chance to repeat their 1978 Grand Slam success under captain Graham Mourie when the November international programme was released yesterday.

It included tests against Ireland on November 12 or 13, England on November 19 or 20 and Scotland on November 26 or 27, but no match against Wales.

New Zealand Rugby Union chief executive Chris Moller said he remained hopeful of reaching an agreement with his Wales counterpart, David Moffett.

"It's a possibility, I wouldn't say it's a probability. We'll continue to talk to them," Moller said.

"It would be fantastic. Imagine a year where we have the Lions tour and then a Grand Slam. It's hard to think of anything better, other than perhaps a World Cup."

He said the biggest hurdle to overcome for the Wales match was the release of top players from club duty in Europe.

He had preliminary discussions with former NZRU boss Moffett around the time of the All Blacks' one-point win over Wales late last year.

Moffett originally indicated the fixture would be unlikely.

"Wales would wish to field a full-strength team, they would therefore need to get those players released," Moller said.

"If they can't get release of those players I doubt whether they will wish to play the match ... and anyway it wouldn't be the best of Grand Slams."

Last year South Africa beat Wales and Scotland, but lost to England and Ireland.

In other internationals this season, Samoa will face England and Scotland, Fiji travel to Italy and Wales, and Tonga take on France and Italy.

- NZPA