All Blacks Squad: Robertson's Picks, Winners and Losers
The All Blacks have announced their squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship and the anticipation is high. Coach Ian Foster has made some bold selections, with some players receiving their first call-up, while others are left out. Here’s a breakdown of Robertson’s picks, the winners, and the losers of this selection.
Robertson's Bold Selections
Foster's squad selection was not without surprises. Here are some of the key picks that stood out:
- The Return of Beauden Barrett: After a brief hiatus from the All Blacks, Barrett returns to the squad. His experience and leadership will be crucial for the team, particularly in the absence of Richie McCaw.
- Fresh Faces in the Backline: The selection of young players like Will Jordan and Quinn Tupaea signals Foster's commitment to building for the future. Both have been performing exceptionally well in Super Rugby and will be looking to make their mark on the international stage.
- A Familiar Face in the Forward Pack: Sam Whitelock returns to the All Blacks after a brief retirement. His presence will provide much-needed leadership and experience in the forward pack.
The Winners
Several players have emerged as winners from this squad selection. Here are a few noteworthy names:
- Will Jordan: Jordan's performances for the Crusaders have not gone unnoticed, and he has earned his place in the All Blacks squad. His pace and finishing ability will be crucial for the team.
- Quinn Tupaea: Tupaea has been a consistent performer for the Chiefs and has been rewarded with his first All Blacks call-up. His ability to play both center and wing will provide the team with valuable versatility.
- Sam Whitelock: Whitelock's return to the All Blacks is a major boost for the team. His experience and leadership will be vital in the upcoming Rugby Championship.
The Losers
While some players have been rewarded, others have missed out on the opportunity to represent the All Blacks. These are some of the players who have lost out:
- Brodie Retallick: Retallick's absence from the squad is a significant loss for the All Blacks. His physicality and leadership will be missed in the forward pack.
- Scott Barrett: Scott Barrett was a standout performer for the Blues in Super Rugby, but he has been left out of the squad. His absence will be felt in the lineout.
- Jordie Barrett: Jordie Barrett's omission from the squad is a surprise. He is a versatile player who has proven himself at international level.
Looking Ahead
The All Blacks squad is a mix of experience and youth, with a strong emphasis on building for the future. The Rugby Championship will provide a crucial test for this team, as they look to reclaim their status as the world's best.
With a combination of experienced players like Beauden Barrett and Sam Whitelock, and exciting young talents like Will Jordan and Quinn Tupaea, the All Blacks are well-equipped to face the challenges ahead. It will be interesting to see how the team performs under Foster’s leadership and how the new faces adapt to the demands of international rugby.
