Aisle be Back: the Bus parked up and NPC around the corner

I catch lots of buses, and nothing is more annoying than when your bus breaks down. But when THE Bus gets parked, well it's a different matter.

I doubt there are many Canes fans who are protesting loudly, but that's the same thing as writing Julian Savea's international obituary.

True, he cannot expect to be hanging in there anymore - the All Blacks need wingers who score tries so ergo, fail to score tries and there's no rationale for him being there.
But there’s not necessarily a rationale yet for the sudden flurry of Savea RIPs in recent days.

The frustrating thing and this isn't the first time, is that sometimes the old Savea bursts through. But it doesn't last.

I remember when he first began at provincial level, he looked like he'd score at will. But the tries often didn't actually come. Until they did, in spades.

So apparently he will now be lining out for the Lions, something they'll probably welcome. It really depends on which Savea turns up. This isn't  the scenario where he was overweight and seemingly tuned-out.

But as I said earlier, it's not time to call time yet on his test career. He is after all now in line behind Waisake, Nehe and Rieko.

Those first two are while fine machines, sadly very prone to breaking down.

And while not wishing for injuries to happen, the Bus would be well advised to keep his rego up to date.

+++++++

I'm sure you've noticed but the national provincial championship is back and soon.

The Lions round out the first set of matches by playing the Turbos away on August 20.

Last year's competition had to put up with some rubbish rule experiments. It's an indignity that should not have been inflicted on the players or the fans, or what is still a very important part of New Zealand’s rugby strength.

It's true that there is further tinkling going on at breakdown and scrum feeds, but nothing like the crazy guinea pig stuff of 2016 which was limited to the NPC and Heartland.

Speaking of the latter, my other team, the Mighty Wairarapa-Bush are debuting a young halfback this year called Piri Weepu.

Apparently he is calm under pressure and can kick goals occasionally.

He could be one to watch.

Lifelong All Blacks supporter Kev has followed the Hurricanes since they began. Last year his faith in them was rewarded when they won the title – they've missed out in 2017, but he'll be back!