O’Gara: Crotty ‘can show the world’ his skills in Japan

This is the Rugby World Cup when All Blacks midfielder Ryan Crotty ‘‘can show the world’’ what a good player he is, says former Crusaders coach Ronan O’Gara.

Speaking to The Times columnist Stuart Barnes, O’Gara has lifted the lid on Crotty’s meticulous preparation, thirst for knowledge and importance to any backline. ‘‘He’s a fascinating person,’’ the former Ireland No 10 told Barnes. ‘‘He has to know his role in every single play.

‘‘If the first part of the move gets to the second, the second to the third, where’s he fitting in, what’s his role? He craves detail.’’

Crotty played 65 minutes of the All Blacks’ test against Tonga in Hamilton two Saturdays ago, scoring a try and as he seeks the All Blacks’ No 12 jersey for their opening Rugby World Cup game against the Springboks on Saturday.

Crotty looks to be locked in a battle with Sonny Bill Williams for the No 12 jersey, with Anton Lienert-Brown and Jack Goodhue contesting the centre position.

The All Blacks also have the option of playing Williams and Crotty together, a partnership they preferred in 2017.

While Crotty lacks Williams’ size and offloading ability, O’Gara said his tactical awareness is second to none and he would be the perfect foil for whoever plays No 10.

‘‘He’s a believer in the simple things, someone who places huge value in preparation,’’ O’Gara said. ‘‘Walk through any potential scenario and he’ll have a few corkers up his sleeve. He’s not the most instinctive player but he is so thorough in his preparation.’’