The All Blacks' fly-half conundrum has been a topic of much debate, with former All Blacks full-back Shane Howarth adding his voice to the chorus. He believes that Dave Rennie should take a bold step and give young talent a chance, specifically mentioning Ruben Love, who has had a stellar season in Super Rugby Pacific. Howarth argues that the current reliance on established players like Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, and Richie Mo'unga has left little room for new blood. He questions the lack of opportunities given to younger players like Rivez Reihana, Josh Jacomb, and Love, suggesting that their potential remains untapped.
Howarth's concern is not just about the current form of the players but also about the future of the team. He highlights the age of Beauden Barrett, who will be 36 during the World Cup, and the potential impact on the team's dynamics. He believes that the New Zealand public would be more understanding if Rennie were to experiment with younger players, even if they don't win the Test match. This approach, he argues, would provide valuable experience and insight into the players' capabilities.
The fly-half position is a critical area of focus for the All Blacks, and Howarth emphasizes the need for a bold move. He specifically calls for Rennie to give Love a chance, stating that the team needs to see what he can do at the highest level. This move, he suggests, would not only benefit the team but also create a positive ripple effect, as the players on either side of the fly-half are likely to be from the Hurricanes, creating a cohesive unit.
While Howarth acknowledges the pressure on Rennie, he believes that taking a risk with younger players is necessary for the team's growth and development. He concludes by expressing his hope that Rennie will make a bold decision, giving Love a chance to shine in the first Test match, which would be a significant step towards a brighter future for the All Blacks.
