Cruden steps out as his own man

ANY CONVERSATION with Aaron Cruden invariably turns to Dan Carter.

But as Cruden grows increasingly comfortable at the highest level, he’s more than content with his unique skill set and being himself.

‘‘A few years ago I probably let it get to me a little bit,’’ Cruden said. ‘‘Now I just take it for what it is. People are always going to compare you to other players. I’m not trying to be anyone else. I’m just trying to be Aaron Cruden. I know exactly what I’m capable of. Every opportunity I get in the No 10 jersey I want to enjoy my time in it.

‘‘If you look at a few incidents in recent times, you never know how long it could potentially last. You have to enjoy every moment.’’

Now, more than ever, there is a growing sense Cruden is putting genuine heat on Carter.

His standout contribution in the Bledisloe Cup demolition showed how destructive he can be with go- forward ball. His challenge is to now repeat his best effort in a black jersey. He will get at least two more tests – against Argentina in Napier this week followed by the Springboks in Wellington – to further press his claims. Then, with Carter expected to recover from his fractured leg for the away leg of the Rugby Championship, the All Blacks selectors will deliberate over who gets the start.

‘‘ I can only control my performances, go out there and try and make it hard for the selectors to say no to selecting me. That’s what I’m focused on,’’ he said.

‘‘We will find out in the next month or so what the coaches are thinking. Regardless, it’s pretty special to be involved in a team like the All Blacks. Whatever my role is, starting or coming off the bench, I’ll do whatever I can to put the team first and, ultimately, hopefully keep producing a few more performances like we got last Saturday.

‘‘Like anything, the more time in the saddle, you gain more confidence.’’