Zac Guildford: Could return from indefinite leave
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Crusaders wing Zac Guildford could still make a return for the Christchurch-based franchise during the Super Rugby season.
The 23-year-old All Black is on indefinite leave following another alcohol-related incident.
But Crusaders assistant coach Aaron Mauger told New Zealand's RadioSport they're hopeful that Guildford would get through the next few weeks and potentially make a return.
It was thought that Sevens All Black Kurt Baker would be elevated from the Crusaders' wider training squad to permanently replace Guildford.
Mauger revealed that they will assess Baker's fitness later this week after the former Highlanders wing sustained a hamstring injury at the Wellington Sevens.
He added that they're hoping Baker will only be out for four weeks, but have also called in former Highlanders speedster Telusa Veainu as back-up.
Comments
Stellenbosched2 says...
Hi Bones7
I agree with your post. The only problem is how to find a way around the social drinking after a game of rugby. It is so much a part of the game and is magic if kept within limits.
If we now say that the team must hold back on the booze for ZG's sake I think it will lead to resentment. I know of a church that went through hard times because the minister's father-in-law was a recovering alcoholic. Alcohol was banned in any shape or form from the church's activities due to one persons problem.
Posted 05:35 07th February 2013
comeonletsplay says...
@ Bones7 - spot on there. I was talking about that at the club the other day. Keep him occupied and ride him all the way. Strength comes from unity, if he is at home going it alone, there is no unity, there will definitely be no strength.
Posted 14:02 06th February 2013
Bones7 says...
Fair play, he might as well. Both Zac and The Crusaders would be guilty of cutting off their nose to spite their face if not. Crusaders need a wing and it is Zac's job and his passion. I know it's not like a normal job, but what kind of employer gives someone a year off to sort themselves out if they've got a drink problem anyway? You'd get disciplined, sacked or supported at work and maybe given a small period of compassionate leave at best, not told to come back in a years time! As much as I believe he'll sort himself out I'm sure it'll be much easier if he's got something else to do, not spend a whole season kicking his heels and dwelling on his mistakes.
Posted 09:31 06th February 2013