Richie Mo'unga keeps the pressure on Barrett

It’s been a hot topic of late that has had the New Zealand faithful at different ends. But as with each passing week the question still arises. Who will wear the All Black 10 jersey? Will it be the experienced Beauden Barrett or the electric, side stepping Richie Mo'unga?

This is not a new debate as many had these disputes last season. However, an injury to Barrett in June last year gave McKenzie a chance in the starting jersey. Barrett was quick to silence his doubters in Bledisloe 2 later in the year. He was all over the park, completing a hattrick and purely sublime without fault. It was at this point that there was no longer a debate on who was the starting first five.

With the World Cup around and the shortened Rugby Championship, Steve Hansen will have to make the call. Judging on Mo'unga's form so far this season the Crusaders first five is the man to lead the All Blacks. 99 running metres, 19 passes, 4 defenders beaten, 1 clean break and 2 offloads was how his statistics read against the Brumbies. The fleet footed 24-year-old was also instrumental for his side, coming back from behind and eventually demolishing their opposition, with some clever decision making. While he might not have assisted, it was his break in the second half that had many licking their lips. A side step put together with raw pace saw the Crusaders back in the Brumbies 22. And the next phase led to a try.

Many will say that he is playing behind a very dominant Crusaders pack, making his duty all the easier. Nevertheless, some of the traits that the University of Canterbury alumni possess simply can't be taught. A running flyhalf who has accurate goal kicking this is a combination that no coach can ignore. But, Steve will have the final say. 

Barrett has yet to hit top form this season and had a particularly uncharacteristic poor match against the Crusaders a few rounds ago. Will the incumbent All Black flyhalf step up once he pulls the black jersey on? Or should the All Blacks perhaps move Barrett to fullback and give the inform Mo'unga a go as the starting first five?