All Blacks watch: who pressed their case over the weekend?
Leroy Carter, Fehi Fineanganofo, Billy Proctor, Brayden Ennor.
Photo:
PHOTOSPORT
Analysis
- While the results over the weekend did a bit to solidify the Super Rugby Pacific table, there was plenty to think about regarding the impending All Black squad naming on 23 June. Some are probably a bit more realistic than others, but that's the fun of trying to read Scott Robertson's no doubt unique thought process.
So here's a look at whose stocks certainly went up, bearing in mind that the Blues had a bye (which to be honest was probably a good thing because it at least ensured they wouldn't lose).
Moana Pasifika felt the wrath of the Chiefs in the ridiculous
85-7 result
, a lot of which was finished by Carter. The wing was involved heavily in the middle of the park too and showcased his skill with a very nice kick to set up his third try.
Cortez Ratima scores and is embraced by Leroy Carter.
Photo:
Jeremy Ward/Photosport
Of course, Carter benefited from the supremely quick service Damian McKenzie was getting, which allowed the first five tons of time to unleash his backs. Ratima helped himself to a hat trick as well, which was timely considering just how tight the squeeze will be for three All Black halfbacks.
Parker probably wasn't on many radars going into this season other than Clayton McMillan's, but his blue collar work ethic and Liam Squire-like physicality looks to be exactly what the loose forward mix can benefit from. It says a lot that he's been keeping incumbent All Black Samipeni Finau on the bench for much of the season.
Simon Parker.
Photo:
Aaron Gillions/ActionPress
No, it's not just because he's from the Crusaders. Rob Penney showed no hesitation in bringing the nine test centre straight back into his starting side and Ennor has repaid the faith, especially on defence against the Highlanders in a
tight 15-12 win
. Ennor had to do plenty of it too, as the Crusaders spent the majority of the game in their own half.
Braydon Ennor tackles Timoci Tavatavanawai.
Photo:
Martin Hunter/ActionPress
Another man to shine in the somewhat ugly win was Christie, who did a mountain of defensive work himself. While he's certainly been consistent throughout his career, Christie has never quite knocked on the door of test selection, however the aforementioned loose forward balance may well necessitate a surprise call up.
The Hurricanes co-skipper has now officially made an art form of the defensive turnover, this time snuffing out the Reds' last possible shot at scoring in their
31-27 win in Brisbane
. Kirifi is in the form of his life and in a team that is coming right at the right time, will his long journey to an All Black jersey be realised or will he be this season's Hoskins Sotutu?
Hurricanes Fehi Fineanganofo celebrates.
Photo:
Patrick Hoelscher
OK, this is a little left field as Carter is the former Sevens rep that is on everyone's minds right now. But Fineanganofo, who slipped into the Hurricanes relatively unheralded this season, has been the most efficient finisher over the past couple of rounds. He scored two crucial tries, including the winner against the Reds - a call up would be a surprise but at least you can say Fineanganofo is truly one of the form wingers right now.
Not just a statement about being picked, Proctor's performance against the Reds was more of a demand to be the starting centre when the test season begins. The fact that the Hurricanes' fortunes have improved dramatically since he's returned from injury is no coincidence, as Proctor's a deadly range of attacking prowess has been what they were sorely missing.
Billy Proctor.
Photo:
Patrick Hoelscher/ActionPress
Despite the Highlanders' loss, Holland's lineout work was again impressive. It's that sort of set piece dependability that Robertson will be looking for while Sam Darry is recovering, and since the Highlanders only have one game left, Holland can probably put his feet up and wait for the squad announcement.
The biggest midfielder in the country put in a timely reminder as to why he got everyone excited back in March, with a powerful display on both sides of the ball against the Crusaders. It wasn't quite enough to get the result, but Tavatavanawai showcased his mobility and defensive smarts, as well as his trademark attacking play. You get the feeling though that whatever the case may be, the call on his selection has already been made.
You can never have too many first fives, right?
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