Iconic No 10 Dan Carter has backed Scott Robertson’s All Blacks to start with Beauden Barrett or Damian McKenzie at first five-eighth after losing Richie Mo’unga to Japan.
One of Robertson’s first big selection calls will be choosing who replaces Mo’unga at first-five and the position looks likely to be a straight contest between Barrett and McKenzie.
It’s not yet clear which of that pair is the frontrunner. Barrett, who was primarily at fullback while Mo’unga was the first-choice No 10 for Ian Foster’s All Blacks, will be available for tests this year after re-signing with NZ Rugby until 2027, despite skipping Super Rugby Pacific in 2024 for another season in Japan.
Chiefs play-maker McKenzie divides opinion on his suitability at first-five for tests but will also be considered for Robertson’s first match as All Blacks coach against England in Dunedin on July. Carter, who is widely considered the All Blacks’ greatest No 10, said Robertson was still blessed with talent to offset Mo’unga’s absence, although his other options are light on experience.
Carter says Richie will be missed because he is such a quality player, but he obviously left for personal reasons and they have got to support people who make those decisions.
Barrett has the edge over McKenzie in experience, with 123 tests to his 47, and has started at No 10 on 56 occasions.
Source : Stuff.co
