Former New Zealand coach Laurie Mains “can’t see a downside” to Sam Whitelock potentially returning to the All Blacks, following reports that the renowned lock was approached by Scott Robertson.
Whitelock, the most capped All Black of all time with 153 Test games, was supposed to have retired from international rugby following last year’s Rugby World Cup in France.
The two-time Rugby World Cup champion inked a contract with French Top 14 club Pau in May of last year, setting the groundwork for what was expected to be his final season in the black jersey.
However, Whitelock is apparently “considering returning to New Zealand” after speaking with All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, according to New Zealand Herald journalist Gregor Paul.
Approaching the 153rd Test veteran.
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With Whitelock turning 36 in October, some rugby fans have questioned why coach Robertson would want the second-rower back in black as the New Zealand national side embarks on a new era.
Laurie Mains felt the same at first, but after some thought, the former All Blacks coach couldn’t see why “mere mortals” would be concerned about Whitelock’s likely comeback.
“Sam Whitelock sits atop the New Zealand great All Black locks alongside Colin Meads, so let’s get very clear,” Mains stated on Newstalk ZB’s Sportstalk with D’Arcy Waldegrave.
“That guy is so rich with experience and understanding surrounding the position of a lock, that I believe Scott Robertson is leveraging his mana and bringing him in to assist bring
The youthful locks go onward.
“They’re going to have a few of young guys in the All Blacks this year; they’ll have to, and I believe that makes perfect sense.
“On top of that, D’Arcy, who are we to question what Scott Robertson intends to do? He understands not only Sam Whitelock but also what is necessary at that level of rugby.
Whitelock, who made a memorable theft at the breakdown to seal New Zealand’s quarter-final victory over Ireland last year, was one of a gifted group of players that left the All Blacks.
Along with Aaron Smith, Dane Coles, and Richie Mo’unga, the All Blacks still have several gaps to fill, particularly at lock.
However, with Super Rugby leaders Scott Barrett and Patrick Tuipulotu, as well as Chiefs duo Tupou Vaa’i and Josh Lord slated to compete for Test positions, there is no doubt that the All Blacks have some great alternatives at lock.
However, Laurie Mains indicated that Whitelock’s leadership may help them all improve.
“I wouldn’t say we have a hole (at the lock). Because Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock have been there with us for a long time and served the country so well, we just believe we might have a little void.
