Backline selections for upcoming Tests
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie faces immediate decisions regarding the backline, particularly at fullback, as the first Test of the year approaches. This comes as Will Jordan continues his recovery from a calf injury, leaving his short-term availability uncertain. Jordan has not played since re-aggravating his calf. This match was his first appearance since an initial calf injury six weeks prior, and he did not participate further in Super Rugby.
Jordan is the only specialist fullback. However, other players have experience in the position, including first-fives Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, and Ruben Love. Additionally, Hurricanes newcomer Josh Moorby, listed as an outside back, also has experience. If selections were based purely on recent form, Love might be chosen at No.10 and Moorby at fullback, with either McKenzie or Barrett on the bench. Love, with five Tests under his belt, has shown strong form with the Super Rugby champions, while Moorby, being less experienced, may need to wait for his opportunity.
Potential shifts in player positions
McKenzie is considered a more likely starter at fullback over Beauden Barrett due to his greater consistency this season. Another option for Rennie, which may become more appealing with the tour of South Africa approaching, is moving Jordie Barrett to fullback. One of the All Blacks‘ significant issues last year, besides general inconsistency, was their struggle with claiming high balls. Jordie Barrett is noted for his ability in this area.
The challenge with shifting Jordie Barrett is his current role as an integral part of the All Blacks midfield, having moved to the No.12 jersey in 2023. Despite this, moving the adaptable player appears to have more advantages. Both Beauden Barrett and McKenzie have not consistently convinced as safer options at fullback. A ready-made alternative at second-five is Quinn Tupaea. Tupaea could form a midfield partnership with Billy Proctor, or with Anton Lienert-Brown, who has recently returned from his Japanese sabbatical.
If the back three were selected solely based on high ball ability, Jordie Barrett stands out as a strong short-to-medium-term option at fullback as the Boks series nears. This could see Caleb Clarke on the left wing and Jordan potentially easing back to the right. Another consideration for Rennie and the selectors is that, apart from Beauden Barrett, few of the first-fives have played much at fullback this year, and Beauden Barrett himself has faced struggles with game time and form due to injury.
McKenzie’s recent performance and support
Damian McKenzie has recently faced scrutiny following his performance in the Super Rugby Pacific final, where the Chiefs lost to the Hurricanes 60-5. All Blacks legend Kieran Read has defended McKenzie, acknowledging the difficult conditions, particularly the wind at Hnry Stadium in Wellington, which affected kicking. Read highlighted McKenzie’s commitment during the game, noting his willingness to engage with larger Hurricanes forwards.
Read suggested that both McKenzie and Ruben Love are key players who will lead the All Blacks. Former Wallabies star Jeremy Paul, however, pointed out McKenzie’s record in finals, where he has played in seven showpiece events and lost them all. Paul also believes that the criticism directed at McKenzie is a consequence of being a high-profile player in New Zealand, especially in the pivotal No.10 position. There must be a compromise that Rennie is comfortable with for the upcoming Tests against France, Italy, and Ireland.
Source: 1news.co.nz
