Hugh McGahan: Chalmers should save indignation for boardroom
5:00AM Sunday October 28, 2007
By Hugh McGahan
"...For me the reason for the outbursts is for Andrew Chalmers, on behalf of the New Zealand Rugby League, to be viewed as a strong advocate for all members of the International Federation to be equal and not just a name on a sheet of paper.
There has long been a perception that the Australians control the game because of the strength of their domestic competition and their dominance on the international scene. Actually this perception is the truth and, despite denials by the Aussies, they strongly influence the nature and charter of the game of rugby league.
Their administrators have been strong and charismatic characters with the determination that Australia will continue to dominate on the field and in the boardroom.
Chalmers is voicing the long-held view of Graham Lowe that New Zealand should not be pushed around by anyone. Since the 1980s, when the likes of Ken Arthurson ruled the Australian game through Manly, New South Wales and Australia and Maurice Lindsay did likewise with Great Britain, 'Lowie' has viewed at close quarters what happened at these levels.
New Zealand's boss at the time, the recently departed Ron McGregor, was a very capable leader for this country, he was a gentleman and not the street fighter type who resorted to gutter tactics like the Australians use to force an issue their way.
Lowie has always wanted to push the barrow that we (NZ) should fight them head on and not take a backward step or show weakness. I can visualise the conversation between Lowie and Chalmers and what he would be suggesting should be said, but more importantly how it was to be said.
"Not politely" is the best way for me to describe the tone of the message to be delivered face to face..."
