Lee Stensness: More to Collins' absence than just rotation

The All Black selectors' policy of player rotation allows them the freedom to select a team tailored to the venue or opposition.

It seems that often the selectors have made an effort to make use of a player's local knowledge and experience. Players have been given starts in their home stadiums where they naturally feel more comfortable, as well as having the added performance incentives of family, friends and a home crowd.

Examples include Neemia Tialata and Piri Weepu last night in Wellington, Marty Holah and Bryon Kelleher in Hamilton against Ireland last month, Jerome Kaino and Troy Flavell at Eden Park against Ireland in the second test, and the (then) all-Auckland back three of Muliaina, Howlett and Rokocoko in the final Tri Nations game of 2005 against Australia at Eden Park.

With this inclination in mind, it seemed puzzling that Jerry Collins was not starting or even included on the bench for last night's test in his home city.

Sure it could be argued that Reuben Thorne warranted selection based on merit and the need for game time. However, it is possible it was more a case of Collins being left out as punishment for recent minor but high profile indiscretions.

It was made public that the All Black management recently gave the squad a reminder of what standards of behaviour were required from the team. Could it be that Jerry's televised toilet stop on the field two weeks ago prior to the kick-off against Australia, coupled with his use of the "f" word in his post-match interview as All Black captain after the test in Argentina, may have seen him accumulate enough 'demerit points' in terms of All Black behavioural standards to make a wake-up call necessary?

In the past the omission of a first choice All Black would have led to strong enquires from the media and the public. Nowadays the selectors have a ready-made, and readily swallowed, explanation for any changes they care to make.

Collins may have been told privately of the reasons for non-selection but, publicly, the rotation policy allows the selectors to explain away any changes as merely rotation.

Collins is a player who thrives on and enjoys being out in the heart of the battle. Keeping him from that, especially on his home patch, would have sent a strong but private message.

It is certain that in the vast majority of cases the selectors' reasons for changes are transparent, and may be in Jerry's case also.

However, my theory is more interesting...