Former All Blacks star Israel Dagg is throwing down the gauntlet, urging coach Scott Robertson to make a bold lineup change. Dagg is advocating for hotshot Leroy Carter to replace Rieko Ioane on the left wing against Argentina and potentially retain that position for the high-stakes match against the Springboks at Eden Park. Ioane, who has been donning the number 11 jersey this season after a stint at centre, hasn't quite hit his stride, opening the door for some fresh talent.
During a segment on the "Scotty and Izzy show," Dagg didn't just propose a switch; he demanded it. "We've got Will Jordan at the back, that's pretty obvious," Dagg explained. "I'm going Billy Proctor, I think he deserves another chance, I think they need to continue with that. That’s what I want to see; more reps, more opportunities for Billy Proctor in that centre position." But the real shake-up came when Dagg introduced his game-changing idea:
"It's time to unleash the man-child Leroy Carter. It's time for Leroy Carter to have an opportunity and make his debut on the wing for the All Blacks. Keep Sevu [Reece] on the right, give Leroy Carter a crack [on the left wing] – a position he's played all year for the Chiefs."
This lineup shuffle would relegate Ioane to the bench, a move that Dagg believes would better suit his current form. "He’s 23 for me, covering wing and centre on the bench," Dagg added, signaling a significant demotion for Ioane.
The discussion didn't end with the backs. Dagg also had thoughts on the forwards, particularly the blindside position. He's pushing for another rookie, Simon Parker, to make an impact off the bench. "I’m putting Josh Lord ahead of Samipeni [Finau] because of Simon Parker; it’s to show why he was picked in the All Blacks squad – Simon Parker to make his debut off the bench," Dagg explained. He praised Parker's prowess at the six position, stating, "The way that he has played in the six position has made everyone decide that this is the guy we’ve been looking for, for the last couple of years."
Dagg's comments have stirred up a fresh debate on the best lineup for the All Blacks as they face a relatively easier opponent in Argentina, which could be seen as an ideal scenario to test new combinations and give emerging talents like Carter and Parker a chance to shine on the international stage.