Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:43p.m.
It was one of those observations from around the periphery, if you like, that one gets to make when in the privileged position of sitting in the best seat in the house as a Commentator.
I am referring to how the All Black players who didn't have a major hand in the actual final or the tournament overall were celebrating.
In that respect Jimmy Cowan was an absolute champion. Any personal disappointment he had every right to harbour was pushed aside as he joined in with his team mates and celebrated the fact that he had been part of this from the outset in 2008.
Corey Flynn was surplus to requirements bar the seven minutes he had on the field. But with the winning bonus of $100,000 about to hit his bank account he too had plenty to cheer about.
Then there was Sonny Bill Williams.
Sonny really is the ultimate box of chocolates, which one you're going to get is always a bit of a mystery.
But one thing is for sure - the more Sonny is the centre of attention the happier he is. When he was the starting wing for the quarter final against Argentina you could be forgiven for thinking Sonny was completely dedicated to seeing out his playing days in New Zealand. Then came his cameos in the semi and final followed by his no show at the various All Black parades around the country.
Sure we have no reason to doubt his reasons for not fronting. It's personal and pretty much nobody's business.
But is there more than meets the eye on this? I think so.