News

Jane thankful for the laws

July 30 2010

New Zealand back Cory Jane has hailed the new rule interpretations as being the ideal shake-up for himself and wing partner Joe Rokocoko.

The back was talking ahead of the first Bledisloe Cup game of 2010 in a year that has seen teams running the ball far more often than in 2009.

And that fact has been good news for Jane, who has shown recently that his versatility could be invaluable for the All Blacks going into the RWC.

"Last year if you were good at catching the ball you were all right. I didn't mind catching the ball but it was a terrible game to play, you just didn't run," he said, speaking to stuff.co.nz.

"Look, you always want to be an All Black even if it's a terrible game. But it was frustrating and not only for the players but also the people watching ... it was terrible.

"This year it has changed and it has shown in our players. Guys like Joe Rokocoko - he is in outstanding form because it is suiting his game again.

"And me, I just like to run with the ball ... I grew up with the ball in hand stuff.

"So it's just enjoying it, enjoying your job. Suddenly there doesn't seem so much pressure because it's what you like to do - have some fun.

"We are doing alright at it too and hopefully it can continue this weekend."

As mentioned, Jane's back-three versatilty has been a major plus for New Zealand in that he is very comfortable under the high ball. However, he admits that full-back Israel Dagg's try on the wing two weeks ago had brought a few laughs out of the pair in the post-match.

"Yeah I said to him when he scored that try against South Africa that he didn't want to play too well in that position on the wing otherwise he will be stuck there. We had a chuckle about that," he continued.

"But the coaches have given Israel the freedom to try things just like they did when I came into the team. And it suits him. Under this game you can't rely on one player to do things at the back now. It's got to come from everywhere and that's why everyone is helping each other out.

"And that's why the counterattack is working well for us - because of the input from everyone.

"We are high on work rate in this team and you're seeing that from guys in the forwards who are playing a bit wider again."