Blair sticks with stance on defector Taumalolo

Kiwis captain Adam Blair is sticking to his hardline stance over the defection of Jason Taumalolo and three other former test teammates to Tonga, ahead of today’s Rugby League World Cup clash against the Pacific Island nation in Hamilton.

The 31-year-old stands by comments he made last month criticising Taumalolo, Sio Siua Taukeiaho, Manu Ma’u and David Fusitu’a for turning their backs on New Zealand, saying the poor timing of their decision and a lack of communication was disrespectful to both the Kiwis jersey and New Zealand coach David Kidwell.

“I stand by what I said. I’m passionate about the Kiwis,” Blair said.

“I want people that are passionate about the Kiwis as well and I’ve got a group of 24 men behind me that are really passionate about what we want to do and journey we want to take and the legacy we want to leave here.”

Blair declined to inflame the situation when asked if he thought it was weak for Taumalolo to shy away from explaining himself to Kiwi media.

“It’s got nothing to do with us what Jase does . . . It’s all about what we can do and what we can control.”

Tonga coach Kristian Woolf denied his star player was being deliberately shielded from scrutiny.

“He’s good. He’s relaxed. Jason’s Jason, he’s always the same,” said Woolf.

“He’s out there having a laugh and having fun and like everyone else he’s looking forward to a good challenge.

“He did a lot of press in Tonga, a lot of press in Australia. Obviously he was really topical around those times so we wanted to let him get his side of the story heard.”

Australian reports suggested Tonga would single out Blair for some special treatment after he questioned Taumalolo’s integrity, but Blair doubts he’ll feature in their plans.

“I don’t think their game plan is going to have anything to do with me,” said Blair.

“Like any team you have weaknesses and strengths and you play your game around those things.

“I know it’s going to be physical, without a doubt. I’ve played so many games and I know what to expect.

“I’ll be going out there being a calm leader and being positive and bringing a lot of energy around the group and making sure we’re not wasting it on things we can’t control.”

Tongan captain and former Kiwis forward Sika Manu refused to buy into the drama and said predictions the match could explode were off the mark.

“To be honest, I don’t think so,” said Manu.

“We’re all professional athletes and it’s been a while now since they mentioned it.

“Our boys are just focused on what we can do best and I’m sure the Kiwis will be doing the same so hopefully nothing goes wrong tomorrow.”