All Blacks supporters were divided over Beauden Barrett following New Zealand’s emphatic victory over the Bulls, with some claiming the veteran has become a “liability” despite another comfortable win.
Dave Rennie’s side continued their perfect start to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour with a 50-19 victory at Loftus Versfeld, making it three wins from three in South Africa.
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New Zealand ran in eight tries, with Josh Moorby and captain Codie Taylor both crossing twice before Leroy Carter added a second-half double. Rieko Ioane and Wallace Sititi also got on the scoresheet.
Barrett started at fullback, with Josh Jacomb handed the No.10 jersey, as Rennie continued to assess his options ahead of the four-Test series against the Springboks.
However, despite the convincing scoreline, Barrett’s performance sparked a fierce debate among supporters.
One fan wrote:
“Tough seeing the demise of Beauden Barrett.”
Another was even more critical:
“Not sure why we’re still playing Barrett. He’s a legend but now a liability.”
A third questioned his kicking game:
“Why does Beauden Barrett keep kicking the ball away? He needs to retire.”
Four All Blacks who flopped against the Bulls
Here are the four All Blacks most criticised against the Bulls – and how RUCK rated their performances.
#4. Peter Lakai
Planet Rugby felt Peter Lakai produced a solid rather than spectacular performance, suggesting he did little to make a compelling case for a place in the Test back-row.
They wrote: “A couple of handling errors aside, it was a strong shift” from the Hurricanes forward, who was described as “sharp and accurate” during his 54 minutes.
RUCK rating: 7/10
RUCK were more impressed with the 23-year-old’s contribution, particularly his work away from the spotlight.
“The 23-year-old produced plenty of unseen work, making a significant impact despite spending time out wide. He helped create Moorby’s second try after breaking a tackle and passing inside, while also winning a crucial turnover and forcing a knock-on.”
A needless side-entry penalty was highlighted as his main mistake.
