Haka cut a danger to society, Connolly says

Connolly said the haka sent a murderous message. Picture / Getty Images

BRISBANE - The All Blacks have been forced to defend the final throat-slitting gesture in their new haka once more after caustic criticism from Wallaby coach John Connolly.

In an attempt to ruffle the All Blacks on the eve of the return Bledisloe Cup test, Connolly pondered whether the final act of Kapa O Pango might lead to a copycat tragedy.

For decades, the Australians have worked themselves in various states of stress about the Ka Mate haka and yesterday Connolly stoked further controversy with his views about the new one.

He claimed it needed to be re-evaluated by the New Zealand Rugby Union because it was not an appropriate look for the sport.

"As custodians of the game, we are continually talking about setting an example to young players and throat-slitting probably doesn't send a good message," he said.

"Young sportsmen these days copy the Wallabies, they copy the All Blacks and I'd hate to think it led to a tragic consequence down the road.

"As a message that it sends, it's that you're murdering someone. I'm not sure if that's a great message."

Assistant All Black coach Wayne Smith said the haka was significant for his team and they were comfortable with all the actions.

"It is not actually a throat-cutting gesture," Smith said, although he also acknowledged that perception existed.

It was an overreaction to suggest the final motion could provoke trouble in society or during a game.

"It is a sporting contest. Can someone being rucked on the field, legitimately on the field, incite violence outside of the game? Can a strong tackle incite violence outside of the game? It is a sporting contest and I think you need to put that into context."

He was concentrating on his analysis for the test, working hard to counter the Wallabies' change in style this season. They had gone to a more ad-lib approach which suited the talents of first five-eighths Stephen Larkham.

Matt Giteau brought a different dimension in midfield after missing the opening Bledisloe Cup encounter in Christchurch through injury. He kicked well for position, supported strongly and had that knack of turning up in the right places.

The All Blacks had a top man in Aaron Mauger as a counter and someone who helped run the backline and direct the game with Daniel Carter.

"You'd say at this stage that Aaron, I think, is as good as anyone in the world," said Smith.

Both Mauger and Giteau showed the benefit of playing at first five eighths during their careers, they understood how the No 10 needed a constant flow of information to assist with his decisions.

Leon MacDonald had recovered after damaging his elbow in practice this week and loosehead prop Tony Woodock had survived a decent scrum session with no recurrence of his shoulder and calf problems.

Like the Wallabies, the All Blacks were looking to get their squad to "make decisions on the hoof" rather than slavishly following a plan. They were being primed to play in a range of ways, methods which could work against any opposition.