Colin Meads: Keep the lineouts simple

Confusion is nothing new in lineouts. It happened in my playing days. But that's because, without lifting, the ball would get chucked in and a bunfight would ensue. My role was to pick up so much of the opposition ball.

Today's All Blacks, however, appear confused by complex moves and deceptions. When the ball is thrown in, it's the last of four or five steps. It's more like Dancing With The Stars.

They've got to simplify matters. We're moving around too much in the lineouts, throwing long too often and leaving gaps.

Chris Jack and Ali Williams are as good as any lineout jumpers in the world. Put them up the front and they'll win the ball. You might want variation at the back of the lineout for certain moves but then do you want the ball or not? If you drive from No 2 in the lineout, it's as good as any ball you can get.

In Brisbane a fortnight ago, I also noticed our great lifter, Carl Hayman, played at the back for a big part of the game. It was meant to be a decoy but once again they're getting carried away trying to outsmart in the thinking department rather than trying to play rugby.

However, I don't think there's a crisis. In Christchurch, the All Blacks did well in the lineouts.

Throwing remains an issue, though Keven Mealamu's still the No 1 hooker and he's proved in high-pressure tests, such as last year's Tri Nations decider at Carisbrook, that he can throw accurately.

I feel sorry for Andrew Hore, though. I'd like to see him get a run in the starting line-up. He's a driving forward and he scores tries, obviously a class player.

Anton Oliver is quality but has trouble with throwing so he's probably the No 3 hooker right now.

At lock, while Jason Eaton has made great strides, Williams has got the experience and he's delivered under pressure before. He didn't have a good Super 14 - injury was a factor - but I think he's still the man to go to.

More importantly, we've got to keep the Wallabies on the back foot. I felt Australia played the best game they could play against us in Brisbane, although I'm still wary of their backline.

It's interesting to hear the Aussies calling for the blood of George Gregan, Stephen Larkham and George Smith.

If Smith is truly in their sights, they're mad. He's the next best No 7 in the world after Richie McCaw and was outstanding in Super 14. The strength, speed and power of the man is what you'd want from every player. The problem is more than likely his support crew.

The All Blacks had trouble breaking the defensive line but there are players who can do that. Sione Lauaki is close to making a comeback and he could be the power player we need off the bench to break open these tight defences.