SIX OF THE BEST

Dane Coles − hooker Age 29; 43 tests* The skinny: Redefining the role of the hooker with his speed of foot, slickness of step and ability to get into the wide channels. Still taking care of his core jobs too. Dynamic, deadly and as tough as a woodpecker’s lips. Brodie Retallick − lock Age 25; 54 tests* The skinny: The big unit (2.04m, 120kg) just keeps on keeping on with unerring consistency. Does the tight stuff, carries with impunity, tackles like a demon and can offload like a midfield back. And a workrate off the charts. Kieran Read − No 8, captain Age 30; 91 tests* The skinny: A complete player with outstanding skills, strength and aerial ability. If anything, the All Blacks loose trio has gone up a gear since the retirement of Richie McCaw and Read, surely, has to take a lot of credit for that. Aaron Smith − halfback Age 27; 54 tests* The skinny: The conductor of the All Blacks’ fast-paced, multi-faceted attacking game at its best. Speed to the ball and swiftness of clearance make him the perfect No 9 for a team that like to play at the velocity these guys do. Beauden Barrett − first five-eighth Age 25; 43 tests* The skinny: Erupted in 2016. Always had tremendous skill and pace, but has evolved into the perfect attacking No 10 this year. Incredible instincts, deceptive speed and great vision. Tactical game improved hugely. Ben Smith − fullback/wing Age 30; 55 tests* The skinny: Just getting better and better as an all-round footballer. At his best at fullback, but a handy right wing and more than capable centre. Superb in air, makes all the right decisions and top-level speed and strength. Supreme operator. * test caps include Saturday night’s v South Africa in Christchurch