The All Blacks' backline configuration continues to stir debate, particularly around the position of Rieko Ioane, following New Zealand's mixed Rugby Championship opener against Argentina. Despite a 41-24 win peppered with six tries, concerns linger, particularly regarding the team’s execution in the outer channels.
Billy Proctor's recent performance has come under scrutiny, sparking discussions about whether Ioane should revert to outside centre. This conversation gains complexity with the upcoming fixtures against Argentina again and a significant face-off with South Africa at Eden Park. Former New Zealand scrum-half Justin Marshall expressed uncertainty about the current midfield setup.
"I don’t know if we have completely found the combination that we are assured of and know is functioning well in the midfield,"
Marshall commented, highlighting ongoing experiments with player positions.Ioane, traditionally strong in the midfield but recently positioned on the wing, has not found his best form this past year. Despite his reliability, especially on defense, shifting him back to centre right before the critical match against South Africa seems fraught with risk due to his limited recent experience in that role.
"Would they go back to Rieko in the midfield? Against South Africa, it’s probably not the right decision,"
Marshall stated, considering the intense defensive strategies expected from the Springboks.The dilemma is compounded by injuries affecting the All Blacks' back three, an area historically rich with talent. The absence of players like Caleb Clarke and Sevu Reece's recent concussion issues have exposed a rare thinness in depth, putting additional pressure on selection decisions. The inclusion of newcomers like Leroy Carter and Emoni Narawa further indicates the selectors' scramble for solutions.
As debates swirl around Ioane's optimal role, the overarching question remains: if Ioane doesn't play on the wing, then who will? This ongoing backline conundrum underscores a critical period of adjustment and strategy for Scott Robertson's squad as they navigate the high stakes of international rugby.