Super Rugby team of the week: Beauden
Welcome back, the Hurricanes. After giving their support act players a run in weeks one and two the Hurricanes took a very big step forward in Palmerston North on Friday.
Dane Coles and Ngani Laumape grabbed the headlines but Beauden Barrett’s return was equally as significant.
The All Blacks No 10 unleashed an effective tactical kicking game – is that a pointer to later in the year? – that constantly pinned the Brumbies deep in their own territory, while also combining well with his midfield and showing his customary excellence under the high ball.
It was a strong start to his year, perhaps in contrast to the Crusaders’ Richie Mo’unga, who has struggled with his goalkicking in the early rounds.
Here is Stuff’s selection for round three.
Edges out the Canes’ Chase Tiatia for his ability to cop some physical punishment from the Reds and respond with a superb 80m try. Has real gas – he left Wallabies wing Sefa Naivalu for dead to score.
15. Will Jordan (Crusaders):
The highlight of the weekend was Aso’s nolook,
14. Vince Aso (Hurricanes):
backhand pass to set up Ngani Laumape for his first try. Right wing looks to be Aso’s best position, which might suit his All Blacks’ ambitions this year.
13. Jack Goodhue (Crusaders):
Goodhue could be a ‘cut and paste’ selection this year due to his consistency. The No 1 midfielder in the country.
12. Ngani Laumape (Hurricanes):
Add Brumbies fullback Tom Banks to the growing list of would-be tacklers who will be having nightmares about the Hurricanes No 12. A human bowling ball packed with dynamite.
11. Etene Nanai-Seturo (Chiefs):
Again showed why his future is so bright with a very well taken try against the Sunwolves. Not a massive man but has great power and balance.
10. Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes):