Bunce shows support for out of form players

Former All Black Frank Bunce has thrown his support behind the out of form World Cup winners.

There are plenty of questions over the makeup of the first All Black squad of the year, with the likes of Piri Weepu, Ma'a Nonu and Ali Williams struggling for form in Super Rugby.

With the squad to meet Ireland announced in a matter of weeks, Bunce says form shouldn't be an issue for seasoned campaigners like Ma'a Nonu.

"I don't think you go past the guys who have done it successfully in the years gone, in my mind. Even though Ma'a Nonu's not playing, well he's not playing badly, but he's not playing wonderfully well, I don't think you go past the likes of him."

Bunce says players who've proven their class deserve the loyalty of selectors.

"I think they'll go with tried and true to an extent, I mean you've got to show that you're looking ahead sufficiently, and name a couple of players and bring them in even if it's just for experience."

And Bunce wants to see Sonny Bill Williams backed as a long term All Black until he signs elsewhere.

Williams is off contract after Super Rugby and has been heavily linked with a return to the NRL

Bunce says the selectors have to believe Williams will be in New Zealand until he gives them reason not to.

"You have to run with the belief that he's going to be playing for New Zealand in the foreseeable future at least. I think until it's set in stone and contracts are signed and made public, you have to believe he's going to be playing in New Zealand."

Photo: Photosport