Top talent shows All Blacks’ depth at first-five



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JAMES LAWLER


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At the moment we are blessed to have so many great first-fives in this country that any one of them could have been in another international team if they were eligible to play for them.

Right now, the battle is between Beauden Barrett and Aaron Cruden. Of course, we shouldn't forget Daniel Carter, who is also obviously in the mix.

That said, Barrett and Cruden are both very much capable of filling Carter's boots these days.

They also happen to be very different types of players.

Cruden is small but very good at controlling the game. He can step off both feet.

Then there's Barrett who is probably a player more in the Carter school of first-fives.  

Big and strong, Barrett's a great defender and never gives up on chasing the wingers when they are certain to score a try.

Sure, his goal kicking needs improving before we can even to begin compare him to Carter, but he is undoubtedly a very classy attacker who reads the game well.

During the World Cup in 2011, we were all very much worried about who would replace the injured Carter.

These days, we are practically saying Carter who?

Don't get me wrong, I still think DC is the world's best number 10, with real leadership qualities and is a first-choice selection in the team. But I think the All Blacks can safely field a team without him these days.

Looking at the other options, the All Blacks also have the likes of Tommy Taylor and Colin Slade in the mix. Again, they are both similar players.

Who do you think is the best No 10 in the country at the moment?

After Aaron Cruden missed the plane to Argentina, Barrett's time to shine is this week and really put a stamp on the 10 jersey.

It will be very interesting to see if he can compete on that stage on a regular basis.

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