Rugby World Cup: Loyalty still alive - Mains

Mils Muliaina faces a battle with Israel Dagg to start at fullback. Photo / Getty Images

The All Blacks selectors have been urged to make room for sentiment in the Rugby World Cup match against Canada by former coach Laurie Mains.

Mils Muliaina should be given a start at fullback, Mains told Radio Sport, because loyalty remains an integral part of the game.

Muliaina would edge closer to his 100th All Blacks cap - he currently sits on 98.

"I'm not saying that right now Mils is playing better than Israel Dagg. But these things about loyalty and achievement inside an All Blacks team, and how you feel about your teammates, is an incredibly important part of it," he said.

"I heard a lovely interview from Piri Weepu talking about how the three [halfbacks] are all vying like hell for the number one spot, but they're all supporting each other. That's the spirit you need in a team, and Mils getting this opportunity - if he does get it - is part of that."

Mains said Muliaina was still in contention for a final and "needs to play a game". Rotating players at fullback is not like switching other positions like the midfield backs and loose forwards, he argued.

Graham Henry's selection headaches also extend to Weepu's spot. Mains says the three players offer different qualities.

"It depends on what sort of game you want to play. Piri Weepu's taken a big step up this year, his all-round game is very solid.

"Jimmy Cowan is your defensive halfback, not to take away from his other strengths, and Andy Ellis your passing halfback. But it looks very hard work for Jimmy Cowan from now on."

- Herald Online