It was an inside job

Stuff reports:

The All Blacks find it hard to understand that a man who has worked for them for many years has been charged in relation to the bug found in their Sydney hotel team room in August.

Fairfax Media understands Adrian Gard, 51, the director of Bodyguards International – a security and investigations company based in Brisbane – is the man charged with public mischief while he was employed as a security consultant by New Zealand Rugby. 

It is believed Gard has worked for the All Blacks as a security consultant for 10 years whenever they have toured Australia. …

In a statement released by NZ Rugby, All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen said: “Frankly, the charge seems bizarre and unbelievable. It’s very hard to understand. The charged man has worked for the All Blacks, and many other organisations, for a long time and is someone who is trusted and well-respected by us.

“However, as with all cases before the courts, there has to be a due process that takes place and it is not right or proper for us to make any further comment as this could jeopardise the outcome of the case.”

If the charges hold up, this is pretty huge. It is a total betrayal of the All Blacks by the very man paid to keep them secure in Australia. If he is found guilty, did he do it for money and who paid him?

The Australian Rugby Union will rightfully feel vindicated that the suspicion has been lifted off them – not that I think anyone seriously thought they were involved.