Ospreys re-sign 'fantastic' 6'4, 110kg athlete Guido Volpi

I think NZ could have many Beaver level players that could go to a world cup, not in a play style perspective I mean, just as in players that only command a couple of facets in their expertise and experience. Robinson and Millar could both control a game with their boot like Merths. Jacomb, Harkin, and Godfrey can present the ball at the line like Cruden. Kemara might be a bit more of a vision player like Richie and learning from /playing with Havili. With even a couple of u21/u20 youngsters that could charge infront of those names in SR.

But I’m saying despite that diversity actually showing great 10 development in the country, I can’t see those players developing enough skill sets in time to outshine Pero’s dependability and composure (only going on his AB performances here though) or the experience and knowledge that Barrett would bring to a group (or as you say someone with the experience of Richie). So the WC 10’s will be those three players.

Fully agree re consistency, this is why I see Dmac being a good option by the time 2027 comes around. Last year was his first at playing 10 in test matches, and his second year over all (well he had one SR season 6/7 years ago too). If he can just get to grips with how to bailout (pass to the 12 and don’t carry it/take it into contact yourself!) safely when plays disrupted and develop a bit more trickery/deception with his option taking, he’ll surpass Mo’unga in general, and even some of Carters play. I’m not sure Barrett was ever the type to mold his style whether he had stayed at full back, 10 or even on the wing. He just players like he did in the back yard and that’s it, it either (you either make it..) works or it doesn’t. It was completely apparent that he was never going to be as great a 10 as he was random backline player (he can’t pass far or kick accurately), so I think it’s perfectly fine to have used him wherever the team needs him. I’d agree though, that sort of flexibility indeed a) causes flexibility to be needed in team mates as well, and b) sets a bad example. Let’s hope it doesn’t get repeated on Pero and Dmac!