Hill not surprised

Press, 3 November 1984, Page 80

Hill not surprised

The decision by the New Zealand Rugby Football Union executive to axe Bryce Rope as the All Black coach in favour of Brian Lochore has not surprised “Tiny” Hill, a national selector, who retained his position on the panel. ' “It was a foregone conclusion really, judging by the comments that were going around before the meeting,” Mr Hill said. “It was up to the council, they decide," he added. Mr Hill said that the impending tour of South Africa by the All Blacks next year “could have influ-

enced the decision.” Mr Lochore captained the All Blacks there in 1970 and returned there nine years later as coach of a successful international side. Mr Rope has been the All Black coach for two years, so the change was “iminent,” Mr Hill said. Mr Hill was surprised, however, to find that all three selectors, (Messrs, Rope, Lochore and Hill) had been returned. “It was a bit amazing they put us back in,” he said. Mr Hill said that both coaches and selectors had a

"short life” in their positions, and there had been more nominations than usual for places, including the coach’s job. Mr Lochore had the players to choose from, and there was no reason why he should not be successful, said Mr Hill. Mr Hill commented that with Mr Lochore as coach, perhaps a few more South Islanders, particularly forwards, would find themselves in the All Blacks. He emphasised the importance of winning tests, and not just provincial games, should the tour to South Africa go ahead.