Despite Ruben Love's recent injury, which might have seemed to pave Richie Mo'unga's way into the All Blacks starting XV, Jeff Wilson asserts that the Number 10 jersey isn't just anyone's for the taking. Wilson emphasized that even without Love, Mo'unga's position as flyhalf isn't guaranteed for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup Test against the Wallabies.
Love, the usual first-choice flyhalf, was sidelined after an injury, having donned the No. 10 jersey in the initial six Tests under coach Dave Rennie. Mo'unga then stepped into the role during the last match of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series versus the Springboks in Baltimore, where he showed promise.
Wilson pointed out in his commentary on The Breakdown that Mo’unga’s performance, although commendable, does not assure him a fixed spot. He mentioned that Mo’unga is part of ongoing competition for the jersey and needs to consistently prove himself.
“We signed him to be in a competition to wear the All Blacks 10 jersey. They gave him the opportunity in Baltimore, showed some really nice signs, and Dave Rennie was happy with some of things he saw,”
Wilson also hinted at potential shuffling within the team, suggesting that Damian McKenzie, who has been playing fullback, could step into the flyhalf role if Mo'unga doesn’t live up to expectations. McKenzie has started all seven tests this year at position 15.
“I don’t think he owns the 10 jersey for the rest of the year, he has to perform otherwise Damian McKenzie might come in and get a chance.”
The All Blacks squad currently has Josh Jacomb as the other recognised flyhalf, alongside Mo'unga, with seasoned players like Beauden Barrett also having been utilized in alternative positions throughout the season.
The team dynamics suggest a flexible approach going into the Wallabies Tests, with various potential line-up shifts depending on individual player performances leading up to the games.
