Damian McKenzie may find himself missing out on a spot in the All Blacks squad, but his boss at the Chiefs had something else to say on the matter.
With the All Blacks squad due to be named on Thursday, Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie appeared quietly surprised at the very notion that McKenzie could miss the cut. But it was his next statement that raised the eyebrows a little.
“Look it’s not my call, but Damian is the best player in Super Rugby”.
And yet McKenzie could find himself missing selection in order to make room for Hurricanes fullback Jordie Barrett.
Damian McKenzie: a ‘Touch And Go’ All Black Selection
It wouldn’t be the end of the world for McKenzie as he’s already worn the black jersey, but there is also no denying that Jordie Barrett is the preferred option.
Plus, Barrett is also a ‘media darling’ of sorts and has been highly tipped by those with inside knowledge.
The pair are locked on five tries each this year, but McKenzie is well ahead in terms of defenders beaten (58-24). McKenzie also has a slightly higher conversion rate as a goal kicker and has been a consistent performer in recent seasons, all while managing to stay injury free.
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