All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has explained the decision to change his first five-eighth for the second Bledisloe Test in Wellington.
Damian McKenzie has worn the No 10 jersey for the All Blacks in every Test in 2024, but now Beauden Barrett wear the jersey for the first time since 2022.
Robertson said that McKenzie has had a “great season” and the reason for the benching was pre-planned, but McKenzie will still have a role play to help the All Blacks finish strong, which has been an issue this year.
“He’s had a great season,” Robertson said of McKenzie.
“There are areas of this game he can get better, but come on and be D-Mac. You know he can play. He’s created a lot for us, one of the highest line breakers in the comp. He can wave a wand and take a gap.
“Also, to come on and then manage what we need to do to finish the match.”
Barrett last played No 10 for the All Blacks in mid-2022, before Foster and his new assistants promoted Richie Mo’unga into the role and moved the two-time World Player of the Year to fullback.
He will resume his partnership with long-time Hurricanes halfback TJ Perenara for his last game in New Zealand for the All Blacks.
The pair played most of their careers together in the capital, guiding the Hurricanes to a maiden Super Rugby title in 2016.
“We’re always planning to give Beauden a go,” Robertson said, “You have to.”
“He’s [McKenzie] started every game till now, he’s shown some great form, and we’ve got to give guys opportunities and build depth in our team.
“And it’s nice chance for Beauden to play outside TJ, they’ve got a combination, they have had a lot of games together, and they played a lot of games together at the Cake Tin. So it lines up nicely.
“He’s [Perenara] playing good footy. He’s been great when he’s come off the bench and when he’s started as well. You’ve got a great 9-10 combo.”
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