All Blacks legend Dan Carter has previously made his feelings clear on Richie Mo’unga, with the fly-half now firmly back in the international picture.
Mo’unga recently made his first Test appearance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, completing a remarkable comeback after spending three seasons playing in Japan.
The 32-year-old had already begun his bid to reclaim the famous number 10 jersey after returning to New Zealand rugby with Canterbury earlier this year.
He was subsequently recalled to the All Blacks squad before starting the final Test of the recent series against South Africa.
Carter has long been an admirer of Mo’unga and previously delivered a brilliant verdict when discussing the best fly-halves in world rugby.
“Richie Mo’unga. Jeez, he can light it up,” Carter said.
“We just need the All Black forward pack to really be dominant. If you can give him good go-forward ball, he can rip any team up, at any time.”
Carter also highlighted Mo’unga’s combination with Beauden Barrett, adding that his “skill-set can turn any team around.”
Carter on Mo’unga's return
More recently, Carter discussed the battle for the All Blacks number 10 jersey and highlighted how Mo’unga had taken control of the position before leaving New Zealand.
“He took a bit of ownership in the back end of his time in New Zealand,” Carter said.
The situation has changed significantly since those comments.
Ruben Love has now been stood down for the remainder of 2026 after suffering an ankle ligament injury which requires surgery.
Love had started the opening three Tests against South Africa before Mo’unga replaced him for the final match.
His absence leaves Mo’unga with another major opportunity to take control of the shirt heading towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Carter had already welcomed his return to the selection battle.
“Obviously you’ve got Richie coming back into the mix as well, so that strengthens the depth,” he said.
“I think it’s an amazing opportunity for one of them to go, ‘Right, that number 10 jersey’s mine.’”
With Love now sidelined and Mo’unga back in black, Carter’s comments have suddenly become even more significant.
