Accepting the Haka Challenge.
Quote:
Originally Posted by MR X
The Haka - Wallabies to stand firmly with toes on the half way line staring at the All Blacks as they do the Haka. The reason is that in doing the Haka the All Blacks edge forward symbolically "taking ground" on the Wallabies. With us standing on half way, arms crossed we send the symbollic message that if you want to take ground come and get it, we ain't moving. And in a final gesture after the All Blacks poke their tounges out or slit their throats we simply yell the word "Australia", turn and take our places for the start of the match. This would also be the end of Waltzing Matilda being sung, Mr X does not like WM!
Was very interested to hear this from Mr X. I've thought about this quite often lately. It's a challenge and, as I've had explained to me, with that tradition comes the right to accept and answer.
I think his idea has great merit. At least in answer to the traditional Ka Mate. It's one of the icons of the game IMO.
But another thing I've thought about lately is that the All Blacks have seen fit to depart from that tradition and decided to invent a couple of their own to better reflect the large number of Pacific Island All Blacks. I'm not sure the same respect is warranted.
It seems to me these "hakas" have become more a motivational tool. More "theatre" than tradition. What did that Kiwi journo call it the other day? Something about pouting and prancing?