In a bold move to recalibrate the All Blacks' shaky aerial game, ex-New Zealand scrum-half Ant Strachan has proposed shifting Jordie Barrett from inside centre back to his debut position of full-back. New Zealand's current struggle in the Rugby Championship, where they sit uncomfortably in third place, could see improvement with this strategic adjustment.
Despite their victories, the All Blacks have faltered against high balls, contributing to losses against Argentina and South Africa. Strachan, who donned the black jersey in the early '90s, suggests that Scott Robertson, the head coach, might find a remedy in utilizing taller players in the back three, with Barrett being a prime candidate. "Jordie Barrett was very effective in the backfield," Strachan commented, highlighting Barrett's prowess in handling aerial challenges and his robust kicking game.
"He’s six foot plus. He’s pretty good above the body, above the head, and he’s got a great kicking game as well."
Barrett's potential shift opens a spot for Will Jordan, who has shown effectiveness but lacks in aerial contests, to remain in the mix, possibly alongside power players like Caleb Clarke or the defensively needing Leroy Carter. "So it could be a Caleb Clarke. It could be a Leroy Carter, who needs a bit of defensive tidy-up with him. But that’s not a bad back three all of a sudden," Strachan added, painting a picture of a dynamic and formidable backline.
The move would also vacate a crucial midfield role, which Strachan believes should go to Quinn Tupaea, a player whose style he compares to the likes of powerful predecessors Ma’a Nonu and Laumape. Strachan questions the current midfield configuration and suggests a return to a more straightforward, robust approach could benefit the team.
"I’d like to see him at full-back. Personally, I think he’d be really effective back there."
With these potential changes, the All Blacks could see a revitalization in their gameplay, addressing key weaknesses that have hindered their performance in the championship. The team's strategy and formation adjustments could indeed be the fresh approach needed to reclaim their dominant stature in international rugby.
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In a bold move to recalibrate the All Blacks' shaky aerial game, ex-New Zealand scrum-half Ant Strachan has proposed shifting Jordie Barrett from inside centre back to his debut position of full-back. New Zealand's current struggle in the Rugby Championship, where they sit uncomfortably in third place, could see improvement with this strategic adjustment.
Despite their victories, the All Blacks have faltered against high balls, contributing to losses against Argentina and South Africa. Strachan, who donned the black jersey in the early '90s, suggests that Scott Robertson, the head coach, might find a remedy in utilizing taller players in the back three, with Barrett being a prime candidate. "Jordie Barrett was very effective in the backfield," Strachan commented, highlighting Barrett's prowess in handling aerial challenges and his robust kicking game.
"He’s six foot plus. He’s pretty good above the body, above the head, and he’s got a great kicking game as well."
Barrett's potential shift opens a spot for Will Jordan, who has shown effectiveness but lacks in aerial contests, to remain in the mix, possibly alongside power players like Caleb Clarke or the defensively needing Leroy Carter. "So it could be a Caleb Clarke. It could be a Leroy Carter, who needs a bit of defensive tidy-up with him. But that’s not a bad back three all of a sudden," Strachan added, painting a picture of a dynamic and formidable backline.
The move would also vacate a crucial midfield role, which Strachan believes should go to Quinn Tupaea, a player whose style he compares to the likes of powerful predecessors Ma’a Nonu and Laumape. Strachan questions the current midfield configuration and suggests a return to a more straightforward, robust approach could benefit the team.
"I’d like to see him at full-back. Personally, I think he’d be really effective back there."
With these potential changes, the All Blacks could see a revitalization in their gameplay, addressing key weaknesses that have hindered their performance in the championship. The team's strategy and formation adjustments could indeed be the fresh approach needed to reclaim their dominant stature in international rugby.