Lam answers back on criticism of Auckland coaching

1.00pm

Auckland coach Pat Lam has blamed player tiredness for some of Auckland's woes this NPC season.

He said many of the players had been playing flat out since December, while others had not started training until February.

While he accepted some of the criticism of the club was warranted, he said it was unfair to blame it all on the new coaching staff.

He also suggested the switch between different teams and coaches was draining for players.

His comments came after former coach John Hart said a lack of coaching experience was been a major factor in Auckland's poor form.

Auckland is struggling near the foot of the first division table after just one win from five matches.

Hart said there was simply not enough experience in the set-up. He also said the fact the All Blacks did not come back early means the experience was not there for a coach to lean on.

Hart does not buy into the theory the All Blacks should have had a lengthy rest after the Tri-Nations and should not play a large part in the NPC.

He said he has not been close enough to it, but clearly Auckland may have made a mistake by resting too many players for too long.

- Newstalk ZB

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