The All Blacks wing Zac Guildford has apologised for his excessive drinking and vowed to take full advantage of his opportunity after escaping a playing ban.
Guildford had already held discussions with All Blacks coaches after several alcohol-related incidents but was involved in another in Brisbane last month in the wake of New Zealand's Tri-Nations defeat by Australia.
The 22-year-old admitted a drinking binge following his disappointing performance in Brisbane - he says he doesn't want to throw away his chance with the All Blacks and he's making changes.
Guildford fronted the media flanked by All Blacks manager Darren Shand, who denies the 22-year-old has missed selection due to the drinking issues.
The Hawkes Bay back has not featured in the All Blacks' first two games of the rugby World Cup but Shand says he had not been left out for disciplinary reasons.
Shand says Guildford had a disappointing match in Brisbane and felt a lot of pressure afterwards, admitting the Crusaders flyer drank excessively at the team hotel, breaching the agreement he had with the coaches.
Shand says Guildford now has a self improvement programme to work on.
Rumours were swirling over his non-selection in the World Cup so far, despite being the only specialist winger in the squad.
Guildford was a shock World Cup selection for many rugby pundits ahead of Hosea Gear and Sitiveni Sivivatu and appears to have been surpassed by the versatile midfielder Richard Kahui in the wing positions.
