Former All Blacks captain Kieran Read has questioned Dave Rennie's decision to overlook Fabian Holland, insisting the young lock is currently New Zealand's best player in his position.
The All Blacks bounced back from their series defeat to South Africa with a crushing 50-19 victory over Australia at Eden Park.
However, despite the convincing result, Read believes Rennie has made a mistake by leaving Holland out of his plans.
The 23-year-old impressed against the Springboks before losing his starting place and eventually being omitted from the matchday squad.
Kieran Read demands Holland return
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Rugby Australia & New Zealand podcast, Read made his feelings clear.
"I think Holland is a starting lock for us. He's, at the moment, our best lock. That's what I'm seeing," he said.
"So, whether they were resting him or not, I don't know what the reasons were. But to me, he's our best lock right now. So, I can't explain that one."
Read went further, describing Holland as a world-class player.
"It makes no sense to me. Because this guy's a world-class player. He's shown it."
The former number eight believes Holland should partner Scott Barrett in the second row, with Tupou Vaa'i also playing a key role.
Justin Marshall questions Rennie
Former All Blacks scrum-half Justin Marshall also questioned Rennie's selections.
He criticised the decision to name both Josh Moorby and Rieko Ioane among the replacements against Australia.
"I'm sorry, but why are they picking two wingers?" Marshall asked.
RUCK verdict
Read has a point. Holland proved his quality against South Africa, and leaving him out completely seems a strange call.
Rennie needs consistency, but that should not come at the expense of selecting his strongest players. Holland deserves another opportunity.
Read also
Five facts about Kieran Read
1. Two-time Rugby World Cup winner
Kieran Read helped New Zealand win back-to-back Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015. He was a key figure in one of the most successful eras in All Blacks history.
2. Played 127 Tests for New Zealand
The legendary number eight earned 127 caps between 2008 and 2019, scoring 26 international tries. He also captained the All Blacks 52 times.
3. Named World Rugby Player of the Year
Read was crowned World Rugby Player of the Year in 2013, beating some of the biggest names in the sport after a remarkable season.
4. A Crusaders legend
He made 156 Super Rugby appearances for the Crusaders, winning multiple titles and establishing himself as one of the finest back-row forwards of his generation.
5. Finished his career in Japan
After leaving New Zealand rugby in 2019, Read joined Toyota Verblitz in Japan. He retired from professional rugby in 2021, ending a career spanning more than 15 years.
