Secret training session for All Blacks

The All Blacks selectors conducted a secret training session before announcing their squad for the Grand Slam Tour of Britain and Ireland.

Several fringe players and other squad members had a training run last Wednesday in Wellington.

One of those invited to the session, recalled hooker Andrew Hore, said he still did not realise he had made the cut for the Grand Slam tour.

Hore said he has moved on from a charge he faced of shooting a seal. He said the lines of communication with coach Graham Henry have been well and truly open, and their discussions have been more about form and fitness, rather than any outside issues.

Hore said he had a "yes-no" feeling during the training run, looking around and seeing a few new faces, and he was kept guessing until the team was revealed on Sunday morning.

As well as last week's secret session, the selection of Jason Eaton and Isaia Toe'ava was kept under wraps.

There is one member of the squad who is more relieved than some others to get there.

Jimmy Cowan has grabbed the third halfback spot, and said he is lucky to have gained back some trust after "playing up" earlier in the year on the junior tour to Australia.

The new All Blacks squad of 35 train for the first time this afternoon.

- NEWSTALK ZB