The exclusion of Ethan Blackadder from Scott Robertson's All Blacks squad continues to stir controversy, especially following the recent squad announcement for the Rugby Championship. Former Wallabies star Jeremy Paul expressed his bafflement, highlighting Blackadder's absence as a significant oversight.
New Zealand's rugby team recently expanded its roster to 42 players, accommodating injuries but still leaving no spot for Christian Lio-Willie and Blackadder, the latter's omission being particularly contentious. Paul, speaking on the GBRANZ podcast, didn't mince words.
"That dumbfounds me,"
he declared, emphasizing the dynamic that Blackadder could bring alongside Ardie Savea and Wallace Sititi. "Ardie and Wallace, while powerful, aren't the tallest. Ethan offers that perfect balance. We need presence in the lineout, something we clearly lacked during key moments against the British and Irish Lions."Blackadder, a stalwart under Robertson during their successful stint at the Crusaders, has had his international opportunities limited by injuries in recent years. Last year, despite limited playtime with the Crusaders, he made the All Blacks squad and participated in four tests, only to be sidelined by injuries. His resilience in returning to full form, featuring in all playoff games for the Crusaders this year, made his non-selection even more perplexing for many, including Paul.
The strategic importance of Blackadder was highlighted by Paul while recalling a specific instance in the Wallabies' recent match against the Lions.
"In the 47th minute, Nick Frost's leap led to consecutive penalties against us. That's a moment made for Ethan’s skills,"
Paul explained, stressing how Blackadder's expertise could have altered the game's dynamics.As the All Blacks prepare to face formidable opponents in the Rugby Championship and defend their Bledisloe Cup title, Robertson's final decision on his back-row combinations remains highly anticipated. The choices made in the coming weeks could very well define New Zealand’s strategy and success in the fiercely competitive landscape of international rugby.