Strengthen DNA: Sir Henry
The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua does not need to replicate the way other teams around the world play their rugby instead they should play the way that suits them best.
This was the view of Rugby World Cup and Super Rugby winning coach Sir Graham Henry.
Sir Henry coached the All Blacks to win the 2011 RWC and in 1996 coached the Blues to win the first Super Rugby title.
Sir Henry, 76, a schoolteacher by profession, is currently in the country as a guest speaker to a major conference in Denarau. He told SUNsports yesterday the Fijians were suited to play unstructured rugby since it was their way of life.
“It should not be changed,” Sir Henry said.
“Fijians love their unstructured, free flowing champagne rugby. “That’s how they normally play, which is beautiful.
“The Drua should play the way they normally play, their DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid), fast pace, high skill game along with some risks and that is how the Fijians play.”
Deoxyribonucleic acid, more commonly known as DNA, is a complex molecule that contains all of the information necessary to build and maintain an organism.
Sir Henry added that the Drua needs not deviate from this but should rather work on horning and perfecting their skills to suit them better.
“Perfecting that game is so important for them. There is nothing they need to change.”
A close follower of Super Rugby, Sir Henry has applauded the efforts put in by the Drua head coach Mick Byrne and his team of coaches to strengthen key areas of their game.
“The forward play is getting better and better.
“They always play the game well now as they have more control upfront and more quality ball to use. Play the Fijian way so that’s the way they should go and its perfect.”
Sir Henry highlighted that the Drua could only get better and would be a title contender in the near future if they continue on the momentum.
He said playing against top teams like the Crusaders, Brumbies, Blues and Chiefs will further enhance the Drua team as these clubs are on par with other top clubs from around the globe.
Sir Henry had coached Wales from 1998 to 2002 and set a record of 11-Test match winning streak. He also coached the British and Irish Lions during their 2001 tour to Australia.
Sir Henry is also a five-time International Rugby Board (now World Rugby) Coach of the Year winner.
He won it in 2005 and 2006 for the All Blacks winning the Tri Nations Series, 2008 and 2010 for again winning the Tri Nations Series and in 2011 for winning the World Cup.