When the Wallabies meet the All Blacks in the Tri Nations on Saturday in Auckland, their first hurdle will be overcoming the self-created drama of the haka.
The Wallabies insist on trying to outsmart the All Blacks in the pre-game ritual, often by mocking New Zealand's indigenous haka dance and postures. This so infuriates the All Blacks that it is like throwing a match on petrol. You might try it once. But repeatedly?
Despite self-preservation, the real reasons for not mocking the haka are cultural.
For example, in countries like Australia and New Zealand, where people take pride in getting along with one-another, the All Black haka has tremendous social significance. It is one of the rare ceremonies where white culture has voluntarily adapted to black culture in a way that unifies both. Usually the reverse is true, with black culture being assimilated into white.
For that reason, the haka is a proof that we can learn from each other. In a world beset by racial hatred and religious wars, such a rare symbol of hope should be embraced, not mocked.
Secondly, the Springboks approach to the haka is single-minded: when challenged they front up.
Many will recall the Boks with arms linked facing the All Black haka in the World Cup final in South Africa. The tension and the intensity was palpable. As was the power of the Springbok defiance.
When the All Blacks first performed their new, throat-slitting haka, Kapa O Pango, it was against the Springboks. As always, the republicans fronted up and faced it.
After the game, the Springboks said they were honoured that the All Blacks had saved the Kapa O Pango for them.
So there it is. And I haven't broached the great Maori culture or the awe-inspiring significance of the haka, including the meaning of the gestures.
Anyway, I tip the All Blacks to win in Auckland on Saturday – and take the Tri Nations. If the Wallabies win against odds created largely by themselves, they deserve full credit. Whatever happens, it will be a brilliant game.
Feeds