Carter backs Barrett as No 1

It’s been one of the hottest debates in New Zealand rugby and now the man more qualified than most to pass judgment has spoken.

Dan Carter, arguably the best first five-eighth to ever pull on an All Blacks jersey, says Beauden Barrett is still the top pick for the No 10 jersey.

Richie Mo’unga continues to put pressure on Barrett following classy cameos off the bench against Argentina and South Africa in the All Blacks’ last two tests.

Mo’unga kicked the winning conversion in the All Blacks’ 32-30 win over the Springboks in Pretoria on Sunday morning when playing at first-five with Barrett switching to fullback when the Crusaders No 10 came off the bench.

But Carter told Newstalk ZB Barrett is still the best option to start in the No 10 jersey.

‘‘He’s still the number one 10 but to have the competition with Richie there, and when the time is right in certain games for Beaudie to go to the back and Richie come on and add another string to the backline . . . it’s a really fortunate position the coaches have got with quality players to be able to bring on as replacements and add a little bit to the game when needed. It’s the kind of depth and competition you want in a squad.

‘‘For me, Beaudie is still the leader in that All Blacks side and what he’s achieved in the last three or four years has been incredible.’’