In a major shift for the All Blacks, Beauden Barrett will start as first-five against the Wallabies this Saturday under coach Scott Robertson, marking the first time in his tenure that Damian McKenzie has not been selected for the pivotal role.
Barrett’s return to the No. 10 jersey, his first since 2022, comes amid growing doubts about McKenzie’s suitability for the position at the international level. Former All Black great Carlos Spencer, who made 35 test appearances, has said in his opinion McKenzie is better suited to fullback, suggesting that he struggles to perform as a commanding test-level first-five.
Spencer, known for his creative playing style akin to McKenzie’s, told Newstalk ZB that while McKenzie excels in Super Rugby, he lacks the assertiveness required to direct the game as a No. 10 in international matches.
Spencer said that McKenzie’s skillset is more effective at fullback, where he has more time and space to make decisions. Despite McKenzie’s dynamic playmaking abilities, Spencer believes the 29-year-old is best utilized in the backline, entering as first receiver when needed, but not as the primary playmaker at test level.
