Martin had not long been appointed Otago coach in something of a surprise choice ahead of established assistant John Haggart.
It was six months before the national championship but the coach was keen to outline some of his plans.
We bounced some names off each other and Martin gave a glowing recommendation of what he called his "X-factor project", University A forward Adam Thomson.
By that stage Thomson was barely on the radar.
He'd played only a handful of games for Otago and seemed a square peg in a round hole, partly because no-one could decide for which position he was best suited.
Thomson was unfairly considered to be a bit of a flash Harry.
Some felt he was too loose, too willing to float on the wing instead of doing the dirty work at ruck and maul time.
They didn't realise Otago actually had a rare gem in its ranks.
Later in 2006 Thomson got his chance to play regularly for Otago but it was at No 8, because of other injuries.
He played well and was desperately unlucky to again be overlooked for the Highlanders.
That disappointment started a chain of events that have led to Thomson making a fairytale rise to All Black status.
He was called into the New Zealand sevens team by coach Gordon Tietjens and starred in a world series victory.
Then he finally got the chance to play a full season for Otago at blindside flanker, his favourite position.
Overdue selection for the Highlanders followed.
Five tries and a series of exciting performances later and Graham Henry called Thomson to let him know he was going to be an All Black.
Martin and Tietjens must share some of the credit for Thomson's resurrection.
Martin recognised his talent and Tietjens helped increase his pace and confidence in following his instincts.
It's an exciting time for Thomson and for his many fans in Otago.
The All Black blindside flanker spot is wide open with the departure of Jerry Collins and if Thomson impresses in some of the early tests, his future will be set.
Jerome Kaino is a more physical player and Kieran Read is a long-term option.
Right now Adam Thomson, Ashburton-raised and Christchurch-educated but all Otago, is one of the most exciting prospects in New Zealand rugby.
Other features of the new-look All Black squad.-
The complete absence of a specialist second five. We knew the position was going to be tricky to fill with Aaron Mauger, Luke McAlister and Sam Tuitupou leaving. But now there is huge pressure on Ma'a Nonu to add consistency to his game-breaking ability. Can Richard Kahui or Conrad Smith really be considered options at 12?
The selection of Anthony Boric ahead of Tom Donnelly. Not exactly a surprise but one that still doesn't really make sense.Boric has promise but Donnelly is the one who has put quality performances on the board each week.
Two new caps on the wing. There is a real chance for Anthony Tuitavake to become a regular after finally getting selected. And Rudi Wulf's story, becoming an All Black after breaking his neck a few years ago, is as heart-warming as they come.
Sione Lauaki. As a No 8? As a blindside? As an impact player? He has the ability to turn a game but he can also completely disappear on the field.
Neemia Tialata. A marginal selection. Has shown nothing to suggest he is fit, technically astute or intelligent enough to be a regular test prop.
