Hierarchy unfazed by Barrett
Fretting about Beauden Barrett is yet to infiltrate the All Blacks.
From battles to break down rush defence to apparent goal kicking struggles, Barrett has endured criticism this season. His disappointing home display in New Plymouth against the Pumas last weekend left the door further ajar for comparisons to last year — and how he has not reached the same heights.
Barrett, in his first season guiding the All Blacks from first five-eighth, set the bar exceedingly high in 2016 on his way to being recognised as world player of the year.
This season has been far more challenging. Collectively, the All Blacks continue to work their way through combating defensive line speed. Senior players and management have been at pains to point out this quest relies on cumulative parts coming together rather than sitting solely on the playmaker’s shoulders.
Still, some believe Barrett’s natural skills are more suited to fullback where backfield freedom would allow his instinctive nature and pace to thrive. This theory, though, dismisses the notion that you want your best players touching the ball as much as possible, and also overlooks how influential he was from No 10 last year.
As far as the All Blacks are concerned, Barrett remains in the infancy of his career. He’s only 26, and learning to overcome different scenarios will only enhance his development.
“He’s in a great spot. He’s leading really well off the park. He’s playing well,” All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster said. “He’s got a job to do and he does that. He’s still by world standards a reasonably young man. I think he’s done a fantastic job running our team around. Is he perfect? No. Is every moment going to be brilliant? No. He’s learning the art of 10 and all the adjustments he has to make — his depth, his own skills, decisions and listening.
“Yep, we all love the magical moments so maybe it was just Vaea [Fifita’s] turn on Saturday and Beauden had a night off.”
Goal-kicking is the main lightning rod when it comes to Barrett. After shanking all three conversions at Yarrow Stadium, once again his ability off the tee was widely questioned.
Damian McKenzie, who the All Blacks say is carrying a leg issue which prevents him from kicking, and Jordie Barrett, out after shoulder surgery, offer long-term alternatives. But goal kicking is a responsibility Barrett wants to retain.