Carter rates Barrett ahead of Mo’unga
Rugby update
Christchurch: Dan Carter believes Beauden Barrett is still the best in the fly-half position for the All Blacks, despite stiff competition from Richie Mo’unga.
Mo’unga has been in sparkling form, guiding the Crusaders to a ninth Super Rugby title, prompting many to suggest it was time he was given a shot in the coveted All Black number ten jersey.
While Carter paid tribute to Mo’unga’s ‘fantastic season’, the three-time World Player of the Year believes Barrett’s experience and leadership still give him the the edge. “It’s obviously hotly debated at the moment and credit to Richie Mo’unga for putting his hand up over a fantastic season,” Carter told the New Zealand Herald.
“It’s hard to go past what Beauden’s achieved over the last couple of years. A lot of the All Blacks’ success has come because of his performances. He’s a leader of the team now.”
Barrett is the current holder of back-to-back World Rugby Player of the Year crowns. But it is Mo’unga who has stolen the limelight in Super Rugby this season, with Barrett’s form slightly underwhelming in contrast. “I’ve been in that position with young guys nipping at your heels. It makes you work harder and appreciate your position in the team more,” Carter added.
“It’s great there’s competition. Damian’s not a bad talent as well. It’s great the All Blacks have such depth.” –Planet Rugby Former All Black joins Taranaki Auckland: Former All Blacks halfback Brendon Leonard has returned to New Zealand and will play for Taranaki in the upcoming Mitre 10 Cup.
The 33-year-old former Chief spent the past five years playing for Italian club Zebre (three seasons) and Welsh side Ospreys (two seasons) and, along with New Zealand under-20 rep Xavier Roe, adds depth behind All Black Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi. Leonard made his All Blacks debut in 2007, and came off the bench to replace Byron Kelleher in New Zealand’s unforgettable quarterfinal loss to France in the World Cup the same year.
In addition to playing 13 tests, Leonard notched 73 Super Rugby matches for the Chiefs, and 64 provincial caps for Waikato. “To sign someone of Brendon’s calibre is exciting, he brings a great wealth of rugby knowledge to the team and will complement our two young half backs,” first-year Taranaki head coach Willie Rickards said.
“Additionally, it’s great to have most of last year’s squad returning. Having familiar combinations and personalities are critical to ensure that we start the competition strong.” Leonard isn’t the only veteran back in New Zealand and set to front for Taranaki.
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