mens
international
Returning All Black lock Scott Barrett produced a flawless display at Eden Park on his return, giving All black people engine room more physicality forward.
Barrett’s big presence was missed against the Springboks, as a bigger physical lock who commands the breakdown and the lineout. Against the Wallabies, it became clear how much they missed their former captain.
His work at the breakdown kept Australia’s poachers in check, Fraser McReight finished with zero turnovers while his direct play kept the defensive line honest. His pull pass to McKenzie started the momentum for the second try and No 10 allowed Wallace Sititi to break from play.
Captain Codie Taylor credited Barrett’s presence as lifting the tight end after performance issues in a number of areas at South Africa tour.
“He’s a great man, and like I said, we have a great stock when it comes to locks,” said Captain Taylor.
“But to have someone like him come in, you know, someone you can rely on as a leader in this group. He was just able to go out this week and focus on his game, but he certainly asked questions when he thought he needed to, and that’s what we want.
“As a tight five, we’ve got a few steps we want to take from the back of the RGR (series against South Africa) and stuff like that. So to have someone like him in the room with his physicality, his presence and his game smarts, great.”
The All Blacks used Josh Lord’s height to control the line, targeting him nine times. Barrett finished with the second most snaps with just two, underscoring how much they relied on Lord.
Barrett finished with 18 carries and 12 draws.
Barrett’s presence in back-up at tight end certainly solidified the scrum, with the All Blacks holding firm against a strong Wallaby starting pack in the front row.
Dave Rennie labeled his return to Test rugby “impressive” and was grateful to have his experience back in the mix.
“It was great to have him in the group because he’s an older boss, it felt like we had a bit more experience going in the door,” Rennie said after the match.
“Tough. I don’t know if you saw the warm-up, but he was out there hitting anybody who had the ball.
“We saw that with the physicality and work ethic that was on display again tonight. It’s great to have him back.”