Former All Black James Parsons has shared his insights on the potential centre selection for the upcoming Test season under Dave Rennie. He believes that the decision will ultimately come down to a three-horse race, with only two spots available in the midfield.
During Scott Robertson’s tenure as head coach, the midfield partnership was a persistent challenge, despite retaining key players like Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane. Both were instrumental in New Zealand’s journey to the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, but Ioane’s form dipped significantly, leading to his move to the wing and eventual departure from the national team.
Ioane has since found success playing at fullback for Leinster, and Parsons doesn’t expect him to be considered for the centre position under Rennie. Instead, he believes Barrett has secured the inside centre spot due to his consistent performance over the past year. The main question now is who will partner Barrett in the midfield.
Parsons suggests that Quinn Tupaea, the Chiefs’ player, should be the obvious choice. Despite only featuring in Super Rugby Pacific at the 13 jersey, Tupaea’s performances have been impressive, and he is expected to start alongside Barrett. Meanwhile, Billy Proctor, who has been a key player for the Hurricanes, may miss out on the starting XV.
“It’s hard because I don’t see a world where Quinn isn’t starting and I don’t see a world where Jordie isn’t starting. The fact that those two are playing so well, it’s a sad state of affairs for Billy but it’s good for the All Blacks and the selectors,” Parsons said on the Aotearoa Rugby Pod.
The ex-Blues hooker highlighted the versatility of Tupaea, who can cover both the wing and the 13 jersey, allowing Proctor to take on other roles within the team. He also mentioned that there are other players in the mix, such as Anton Lienert-Brown, who is returning to action, and Ioane, who may not be in the conversation anymore due to his current role at Leinster.
“Form comes and goes, and I think where Dave will be looking most is finals footy,” Parsons added. He pointed out that the Hurricanes have shown improvement in high-pressure situations, unlike previous years when they struggled in the playoffs. This year, they have managed to beat the Crusaders and nearly toppled the Chiefs, indicating their potential to perform under pressure.
Home ground advantage could play a crucial role in the Hurricanes’ performance, and individual players may push for their positions based on how they handle these challenges.
Ex-Crusaders star Bryn Hall, who joined Parsons on the show, agreed with the assessment of Barrett and Tupaea’s selection. However, Hall believes that Proctor will be a player that Rennie will take an interest in, given the effort he brings to the game.
“What excites me and what Dave Rennie does like is all the effort areas – all the hard work and all the one percenters,” Hall said. He highlighted Proctor’s contributions in high-pressure moments, such as winning the ball in the air and securing scraps during crucial plays.
While Barrett and Tupaea also contribute in these areas, Hall emphasized that Proctor’s consistent effort and work ethic make him a valuable asset to the team. He noted that the current midfield options include Barrett at 12, Tupaea at 13, and Proctor being part of the conversation as well.
As the selection process continues, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Rennie balances form, versatility, and performance under pressure to determine the best midfield combination for the All Blacks.
