In Brodie we trust, and pray
convene a group of test coaches and give them the option of removing one All Black to boost their own hopes, it would be Retallick.
But hold on. We are not quite back in 2009, even though that year has shot back into prominence this week as the last time the French beat the All Blacks in New Zealand.
Then, a young Isaac Ross was called into the middle row with Bryn Evans on the bench.
Ross was a skilful player with superb hands but the leap into the All Blacks from Super Rugby is sizeable and that night in Dunedin showed it.
You cannot compare the All Blacks’ depth now to what it was then. Scott Barrett has been outstanding for the Crusaders and while he has the skills to match Ross he also possesses the grinding qualities needed in tests. Two years ago, in Paris, a tired All Blacks team was labouring against the French. Barrett was one of those injected off the bench to provide some go-forward.
In 2018, as a more complete player, he looks good to go as a starter. Luke Romano’s size and experience provide an insurance policy off the bench.
Collectively, the All Blacks are in much better shape than they were nine years ago.
Still, Retallick’s injury, whether it is for one game or nine months, is a reminder that the All Blacks cannot be guaranteed to have Sam Whitelock and Retallick fit when the World Cup rolls around next year.
Perhaps there is still time for another lock to be brought into the fold, possibly on the end-ofseason tour. Of course, Patrick Tuipulotu might still come good and Romano is still around but there is as a youngster that might merit a look.
The Crusaders’ Quinten Strange, 21, was again strong last weekend. As is their way, the Crusaders have been patient with Strange and that approach is starting to pay dividends.
At 1.99cm he has the requisite height to play test rugby and the bulk will come.
But Strange is one for the future.
In the present, All Blacks fans should say a quiet prayer for Retallick. If he is gone, a tough year becomes even more complicated.