New Zealand'S Rugby mana did not receive a boost in the trial matches played in Wellington late in September. It may have been the knowledge that there is little chance of a team being sent to South Africa in view of the unsettled conditions, but whatever the reason there was a deplorable absence of class players or class play.

It had been hoped that our weakness in the forward division would be cured ere now, but the forwards in trial matches did not reveal the quality needed to face a Springbok pack with even chances of success. One forward to make an impression was W. H. Warrender, of Waikato. He played outstanding football throughout the series and if a team is sent to South Africa he should be one of the first chosen.

Phil Reid, former St. Patrick's College (Silverstream) player, did not cut much ice until partnered with C. A. Grossman (King Country). This combination provided the best five-eighth play of the series and might well develop into one of the most successful yet fielded by New Zealand. Incidentally, Reid received coaching from Father Kane, who, as “P. Markham,” won his All Black jersey in 1921.

Another player to take the eye as a prospective All Black was A. G. Hunter, of Canterbury. He learnt his football at Scots College (Wellington) but it is believed, on good authority, that his football was inherited. His uncle, the famous Jimmy Hunter, was one of the stars of 1905.

New Zealand appears to be well-served with inside backs, but weak in forwards, half-backs and full-backs. Of course, it should be remembered that the 1924 All Blacks were the “worst to leave New Zealand”…‥ until they won all their games in Great Britain and Ireland so it may well be that our critics are once again astray. For the sake of New Zealand Rugby I hope this is the case.