Cruden oh dear

Late yesterday morning the news broke that All Blacks number 10, Aaron Cruden had not travelled with the rest of the team over to Argentina to start their away games in the Rugby Championship.

I would argue that not many fans would have expected the reason that followed.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen fronted the media and explained that he was involved in a drinking session and as a result missed the flight.

This followed a 24 hour delay on their original flight to Sunday morning which gave members of the team free rein on Saturday night to enjoy themselves prior to their revised departure on Sunday around 11am.

It was reported that Cruden was joined by Brodie Retallick, Aaron Smith, Sam Whitelock and Kieran Read were present at The Zookeepers's Son having a meal and a drink.

According to pub owner Lindy Catchpole the group were well behaved which begs the question what happened that caused Cruden to have a few too many beersies and miss the flight.

Social media and talkback lines were humming yesterday as news broke, with many fans and commentators in shock at the revelations from Cruden, who most would peg as one of the squad's quietest members.

I have to echo the sentiments of many online, and give praise to the All Black management and coaches for acting swiftly and reasonably following the incident.

It would have been easy for Hansen and co to choose another form of punishment but it continues to show that they will not tolerate any off field issues, no matter who they are.

It is no secret that our boys do enjoy themselves off the field but it begs the question why he would put his spot on the tour in jeopardy so close to the tour departure.

Perhaps the ARU should take note on how to handle an off field incident...

The big winner out of the situation is Beauden Barrett now walking into valuable starting time in the number ten jersey, potentially pushing Cruden out further into the year's test matches with Dan Carter set to return after a quick stint in the ITM Cup for Canterbury.

Nobody is perfect, not even our All Blacks but unfortunately for Cruden this came at potentially a crucial stage in the year.

Steve Hansen summed up his sentiments in this quote

"We all make mistakes. Like our children we love them but sometimes we don't love their behaviour".

Personally I cant wait for the game this weekend, and who doesnt love a bit of extra spice to a test match.

Cruden will no doubt spend the next two weeks at his home in Hamilton and when he is give a go again on the field it will be interesting to see how he reacts.

What do you think of the Cruden situation?

Was his punishment fair?