A photographer who took a picture of New Zealand coach Graham Henry’s match tactics has been banned by the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU).
Scott Barbour, who was born in New Zealand, will not be allowed to cover the All Blacks’ build-up to their Tri-Nations clash with Australia after his photograph (see below) was reproduced by Australian media.
He was employed as freelance photographer by Getty Images, who will now not be allowed to send a replacement.
NZRU chief executive Steve Tew said, “We think it is important to be open. But at international level the margins that separate the teams are so marginal that the smallest thing can make a difference.”
The All Blacks team manager Darren Shand was incensed and added, “People’s careers hinge on results.â€
The Australians saw a lighter side to it, however.
“I understand it was a Kiwi photographer, so I do find that amusing,” said Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.
