Rugby: Northern Hemisphere eye All Black riches with envy

Conrad Smith (right). Photo / Getty Images

Through the binoculars from the Northern Hemisphere, the question arises: Is New Zealand ready for the Rugby World Cup?

The one weakness still not settled is the backup for Dan Carter at No 10.

But there are plenty of positives to cheer the All Black selectors. Just when we thought it looked like a four-way fight for the second five-eighths and centre roles - with Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Robbie Fruean and Ma'a Nonu leading the way - then Richard Kahui returns to the Chiefs and again reminds us of his skills.

The back row of the pack also seems to offer increasing options with Matt Todd making rapid progress and Adam Thomson reacting positively to the challenge this year.

Jimmy Cowan at the heart of a fired-up Highlanders is another who is highly motivated by the opportunities just around the corner.

So from this side of the world, there is a certain sense of trepidation at the playing resources that are becoming apparent for the New Zealanders.

Lose Mils Muliaina and you can slot in either Israel Dagg or Isaia Toeava. Lose Cory Jane out of the back three and you might have to make do with Joe Rokocoko, Hosea Gear, Zac Guildford, Richard Kahui or even Sean Maitland on the wing.

There's a sharp contrast in English or Welsh rugby.

Wales rushed to bring back playboy Gavin Henson into their team to meet the Barbarians because their options in the midfield are so limited.

England are so short of centres they will choose Mike Tindall in their World Cup squad. He will offer physicality, courage, commitment and determination, but he won't have an ounce of the class taken as read in players such as Sonny Williams, Smith, Nonu, Fruean or Kahui.

Take Brian O'Driscoll out of the Ireland team and you are looking at a ruined World Cup campaign.

As for being ready for it, maybe that question would best be directed to Graham Henry. But if New Zealand really isn't ready after a wait of 24 years, then it never will be.