[Australia] Timana Tahu – Wrong hairdo? left before he was pushed?

Originally uploaded by performancemopar

Timana Tahu originally featured in Australian coach Robbie Deans’ plans but since the departure of Lote Tiquiri, there seems to be no room at the inn for anyone who doesn’t fit the mould.

The new breed all have a similar young, blond look: Lachlin Turner, Berrick Barnes, James O’Connor, Drew Mitchell.

Matt Gitteau has had the blond do for some time but like Barnes, he tends to play with headgear to protect the highlights.

Stirling Mortlock is the odd one out and will likely leave Australia after the 2011 world cup to make way for another fresh-faced bond (or partially blond) haired three quarter.

The Australian Rugby Union made $30 million from hosting the 2003 world cup and vowed to spend it developing the game in their country.

One of the first things they did was attracted several high profile converts from the Australian League ranks. Up until now, only Lote Tiquiri was ever able to hold down a regular spot in the test side however.

Matt Rogers was a good rugby player who started to show some real promise and versatility at international level, but he chose to return to his former code.

Wendyl Sailor never fulfilled the promise and returned to League after a layoff for drugs.

So now with Tiquiri and Tahu gone, that only leaves Ryan Cross and Berrick Barnes as the converts and apparently Barnes hardly played first grade – not a lot for the Australian Rugby Union’s investment.
But at least Barnes and Cross have the right coloured hair.