News

Hamilton waiting in the wings

May 21 2008

Whether Scott Hamilton is back in Robbie Deans' good books will be revealed on Thursday when the Crusaders line-up is revealed to take on the Hurricanes in the Super 14 semi-final this weekend.

Discarded by the departing Crusaders coach since appearing as a replacement against the Blues in Round Eleven, the two-test All Black has been sent away to represent his Glenmark club for the last four weeks.

But lukewarm performances by rookie wings Kade Poki and Sean Maitland in last weekend's defeat to the Highlanders could see the more experienced Hamilton selected for Saturday's all-New Zealand showdown.

Last Saturday, Deans watched the second half of Glenmark's 55-0 win over Kaiapoi, and Hamilton was eager to make an impression.

"I was playing on the wing at the weekend but was pushing my way into first receiver - even in defence, in attempt to get a few more tackles in," Hamilton told the Press.

"I was just trying to get involved as much as I could."

In four matches Hamilton has scored eight tries for Glenmark which leads its North Canterbury club section.

"That's not saying too much," said Hamilton.

"We have got a really dominant team, winning most games by 50 points."

Deans has preferred to use Caleb Ralph as wing cover for the last three matches.

The Glenmark experience has been enjoyable, Hamilton says, but he knows where he would rather be this weekend.

"Absolutely. There's no doubt about that. Obviously it sucks not being part of it (playing for the Crusaders) on the field, but I have really enjoyed getting out there for Glenmark."

Deans' reasoning for dropping Hamilton was that his workload had slipped.

"He just wanted me to get involved a bit more," said Hamilton.

"We have had a bit of a chat about what he wants me to do and things like that."

Being a professional in the amateur ranks has seen Hamilton targeted by opponents.

"When you are on the ground in country rugby, they tend to use the sprigs and get away with it a bit more than what you do in the professional level," he said.

"But that's all good fun. And heading to the clubrooms to share a sav(eloy) and a beer after the game is always good."

This could also Hamilton's last season in Crusaders colours.

Although his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) does not expire until the end of next year, he has an out clause he can exercise.

"There are options for me to go overseas which I am exploring, probably like three-quarters of the population," said Hamilton.

"But that does not mean I am going. I am just waiting to see. I have not committed or done anything yet."