Listen & read
Shane Howarth urges Dave Rennie to break from tradition and select a young fly-half for the All Blacks. This decision could reshape New Zealand's future as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
Howarth advocates for Hurricanes standout Ruben Love to step into the pivotal number 10 role after a stellar Super Rugby Pacific season. If chosen, Love would be the first fly-half outside of Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, or Richie Mo’unga to start a Test since Lima Sopoaga in 2017. Both Ian Foster and Scott Robertson have leaned heavily on this trio, with Mo’unga's absence due to his stint in Japan.
Howarth emphasizes the urgency for new blood, stating, “Beauden’s going to be 36 at the World Cup.” He questions why talented youngsters like Rivez Reihana and Josh Jacomb have not been given a chance. With Barrett struggling and McKenzie performing well, the fly-half position remains uncertain.
Howarth believes the New Zealand public would support experimentation at this level, even in the face of potential losses. He insists on the necessity of giving players like Love a shot to prove themselves, stating, “You don’t know until they play.” The pressure is on Rennie to make a bold choice that could define the All Blacks' trajectory.
Comments (0)