Bryce and the Sponge could you please name this Ab side

that you expect to rule world rugby in 2012. Its all a mystery to me!

Hooker - Andrew Hore (33)
Hooker - Kevin Mealamu (32)
Prop - Tony Woodcock (31)
Lock - Brad Thorne (37)
Lock - Ali Williams (30)
Flank - Richie McCaw (31)
Flank - Adam Thomson (29)
Scrumhalf - Jimmy Cowan (29)
Scrumhalf - Piri Weepu (28)
Flyhalf - Stephen Donald (28)
Flyhalf - Dan Carter (29)
Centre - Ma'a Nonu (29)
Centre - Conrad Smith (30)
Wing - Cory Jane (29)

All these key figures are either a.Passed their best, b.In decline, c.Too old or will be too old for the next World Cup, d.All of the above.

So what is the prospective talent? Only a few have really been worthy of the Aristokrat stamp of approval.

Victor Vito (24)
A truly outstanding player that was monstrous in defence last year and worked very well in tandem with Kieran Reid at various points. Would make my Bok side!

Kieran Reid (26)
By far the best All Black loose forward over the last two years. Far and way better than the myth that is McCheat. He is not innocent of their illegal tactics, but when put to the test he can play solidly to a world class standard.

Colin Slade (24)
Showed more form last year than the overrated Carter. He took the flack for New Zealand's loss to South Africa last year yet was a very bright spark for them. This in spite of SBW clogging up the 12 jersey that day in another inept showing. His strong showings reflect a very underrated talent here that could very well go on to dominate for New Zealand.

Israel Dagg (24)
A lively and exciting runner. When New Zealand can provide the platform for their backs to dominate, particulaly Nonu, there ar few that can enter the line from fullback and run riot like he can. Not a perfect player by any means, but a world class prospect.

Outside of the above there is nothing for New Zealand. This is as honest as can be and an eye opener for those that believe New Zealand are truly a dominant force by performances alone. Take away the bias and they cannot compet with the leading nations. Take away their core players and their depth is painfully limited and unable to fill the void.

 

Thanks Card - no wonder ou Sponge and BL didn't answer my question. As I said the abs were there for the taking at the wc and the trophy was handed to them by the two refs BL and craig joubert.

I was not however impressed by Slade. The others you mention are fine but hardly constitute a match 22!!