I wonder if the All Blacks selectors in their evaluations and planning are considering the most important criteria of all, picking players who can win the World Cup this year and not last year.
Historically, one of the strengths of New Zealand rugby was the fact that many good players and coaches got axed before their expiry date, which led to a fresh enthusiasm among the group and created a culture of desperation to succeed.
Nowadays, there is almost the reverse happening, with players and coaches not being replaced and a feeling that the All Blacks cannot perform without them.
The selectors need to look at their resources, decide on the best way to play, with considerations such as the weather, and think about the mental strength or lack of it of those who have previously lost in the World Cup.
They must decide whether injured players are going to fit in sufficient game time, so that they feel like they have put in the necessary "hard yards" which will provide them with the desired confidence.
Picking players because they have been part of the group over a period of time, or because they played well enough last season, or before that, will likely lead to a 1991 scenario all over again.
This squad needs some fresh input that will bring an excitement and enthusiasm to an already strong group.
There should only be a few relatively new, or completely new faces, but they should be included.
It is time to replace either Tony Woodcock, because of injury, or John Afoa, and include Wyatt Crockett or Charlie Faumuina. Corey Flynn's backup hooking days should be over and it is time to give Hika Elliot his opportunity.
Ali Williams has not done enough to take his place alongside Brad Thorn and Sam Whitelock, so the position should see an Anthony Boric or even a Luke Romano included.
Even a tighter forward such as Tom Donnelly would be a good bet.
Matt Todd will be the heir apparent to Richie McCaw, Victor Vito should be back in along with Adam Thomson, although he was noticeably better on the harder surfaces. This would leave out Liam Messam, although he has had a good Super Rugby season. A saving grace for Messam could be his physicality.
With the campaigns of Alby Mathewson and Brendon Leonard not reaching any great heights, it is hoped Piri Weepu will return to maximum fitness and the No1 spot. He was not selected in 2007 and will be keen to be in a winning team.
Aaron Cruden will be the back-up to Dan Carter and it is a pity that Lachie Munro hasn't had some game time at 10 for the Blues as he can control a game and can kick goals, despite the fact he makes a few mistakes.
Now there's a thought – I wonder if the squad know their best drop-kick options in 2011.
Ma'a Nonu and Sonny Bill Williams will tie up the No12 jersey, while from centre to fullback there are some really important decisions to be made.
Conrad Smith's injuries are a concern, although he'll be a definite selection if he recovers soon, but if one considers the amount of young talent about in the form of Israel Dagg, Sean Maitland, Robbie Fruean, Zac Guildford and Ben Smith, there has to be pressure on selecting some of these as against Sitiveni Sivivatu, Hosea Gear, Mils Muliaina and Isaia Toeava.
It is always an interesting time just before All Blacks squads are named. Who is in your squad?
Ian Snook has coached professionally for the past 25 years in New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, England, Ireland, Japan and Italy.
Historically, one of the strengths of New Zealand rugby was the fact that many good players and coaches got axed before their expiry date, which led to a fresh enthusiasm among the group and created a culture of desperation to succeed.
Nowadays, there is almost the reverse happening, with players and coaches not being replaced and a feeling that the All Blacks cannot perform without them.
The selectors need to look at their resources, decide on the best way to play, with considerations such as the weather, and think about the mental strength or lack of it of those who have previously lost in the World Cup.
They must decide whether injured players are going to fit in sufficient game time, so that they feel like they have put in the necessary "hard yards" which will provide them with the desired confidence.
Picking players because they have been part of the group over a period of time, or because they played well enough last season, or before that, will likely lead to a 1991 scenario all over again.
This squad needs some fresh input that will bring an excitement and enthusiasm to an already strong group.
There should only be a few relatively new, or completely new faces, but they should be included.
It is time to replace either Tony Woodcock, because of injury, or John Afoa, and include Wyatt Crockett or Charlie Faumuina. Corey Flynn's backup hooking days should be over and it is time to give Hika Elliot his opportunity.
Ali Williams has not done enough to take his place alongside Brad Thorn and Sam Whitelock, so the position should see an Anthony Boric or even a Luke Romano included.
Even a tighter forward such as Tom Donnelly would be a good bet.
Matt Todd will be the heir apparent to Richie McCaw, Victor Vito should be back in along with Adam Thomson, although he was noticeably better on the harder surfaces. This would leave out Liam Messam, although he has had a good Super Rugby season. A saving grace for Messam could be his physicality.
With the campaigns of Alby Mathewson and Brendon Leonard not reaching any great heights, it is hoped Piri Weepu will return to maximum fitness and the No1 spot. He was not selected in 2007 and will be keen to be in a winning team.
Aaron Cruden will be the back-up to Dan Carter and it is a pity that Lachie Munro hasn't had some game time at 10 for the Blues as he can control a game and can kick goals, despite the fact he makes a few mistakes.
Now there's a thought – I wonder if the squad know their best drop-kick options in 2011.
Ma'a Nonu and Sonny Bill Williams will tie up the No12 jersey, while from centre to fullback there are some really important decisions to be made.
Conrad Smith's injuries are a concern, although he'll be a definite selection if he recovers soon, but if one considers the amount of young talent about in the form of Israel Dagg, Sean Maitland, Robbie Fruean, Zac Guildford and Ben Smith, there has to be pressure on selecting some of these as against Sitiveni Sivivatu, Hosea Gear, Mils Muliaina and Isaia Toeava.
It is always an interesting time just before All Blacks squads are named. Who is in your squad?
Ian Snook has coached professionally for the past 25 years in New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, England, Ireland, Japan and Italy.
