The All Blacks XV is at a crossroads, and the clock is ticking. It's time for a bold move to secure the team's future, and that means putting faith in the next generation.
But here's the catch: When Rassie Erasmus, the mastermind behind the Springboks' success, made significant changes to his lineup, it showcased his trust in the depth of his squad. This move led to a historic defeat of the All Blacks, proving that Erasmus has a wealth of talent at his disposal.
Now, the All Blacks, led by Scott Robertson, find themselves in a different situation. Despite making some commendable decisions, such as giving opportunities to rising stars like Leroy Carter, Simon Parker, and Fabian Holland, there are still concerns. Players like Rieko Ioane and Sevu Reece, once Test level performers, are now past their prime and in need of replacement.
And this is where the controversy begins. Robertson has expressed his desire to have four players for every position, but is he truly utilizing the available talent? Players like Luke Jacobson and Samipeni Finau have shown promise but continue to struggle with discipline. Meanwhile, Caleb Tangitau's injury has hindered his chances, despite his undeniable talent.
Enter Jamie Joseph, the newly appointed All Blacks XV head coach for 2025 and 2026. Joseph, who will also coach the Highlanders in Super Rugby Pacific, understands the importance of his role in developing players for international rugby. He aims to create a challenging environment that prepares players for the world stage and higher honors.
However, the real challenge lies in the squad selection. Last year's All Blacks XV squad included several players who had already represented the All Blacks, defeating the purpose of providing experience to up-and-coming talent. Clayton McMillan, the previous coach, missed an opportunity to introduce fresh faces.
This year, the focus should be on incorporating New Zealand U20's players from recent years who demonstrate Test-level potential. Cooper Roberts, Dylan Pledger, and Oli Mathis are just a few names that deserve consideration. Mathis, in particular, is a highly discussed talent who should be given a chance to develop his hybrid loose forward skills.
The coaching staff should also take a chance on players like Eli Oudenryn, who has recently signed for the Blues, to nurture their skills for future All Blacks selection. Additionally, outside backs Maloni Kunawave, Stanely Solomon, and Kele Lasaqa have immense potential and could benefit from exposure to international standards.
As the All Blacks XV is a developmental team, Joseph and his team must identify and nurture the hidden gems that will become the future of the All Blacks. The selection process should prioritize youth who will reach their peak in the coming years, ensuring the team's long-term success.
So, will the All Blacks XV embrace the youth revolution, or will they risk falling behind in the ever-evolving world of rugby? It's a decision that could shape the team's destiny. What do you think? Is it time for a radical change, or should they stick to their tried and tested methods?
