All Blacks centre Jordie Barrett reckons variation on attack is needed to counter the defensive pressure of world-class Springbok rivals Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel, reports DEVIN HERMANUS.
Two-time World Cup winners De Allende and Kriel, who hold the all-time record for the most Test starts by a Bok midfield pairing, will line up against New Zealand at FNB Stadium in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry on Saturday. The four-Test series is level at 1-1.
De Allende’s century of caps two weeks ago was overshadowed by defeat in Joburg, but starred with Kriel in South Africa’s 33-26 win at Cape Town Stadium last Saturday, the latter scoring off a lineout maul before the former crossed from close range.
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“Those two have been a centre pairing for a number of years and world class consistently, outstanding for a long time for the Boks,” Barrett said on Monday.
“I guess that edge you’re looking for is trying to find some variation within your strikes or phase play that can look for an opportunity based on trends that they’ve shown in the past, and that can be quite challenging at times.”
Kurt-Lee Arendse, replaced on the eve of the Mother City victory after fellow pocket rocket Cheslin Kolbe recovered from a niggle, returns on the right wing this week.
The hulking Ethan Hooker has retained his spot at No 11.
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Turning his focus to the Bok back three, Barrett spotlighted the aerial threat Arendse and Hooker posed out wide, and the space that comes with the Bok widemen’s aggressive line speed.
“One thing they have shown, particularly the wingers as well, they get high on the outside, they give you less time than most other teams, but I think that presents opportunities as well,” the Kiwi explained.
“We’re going to try and look for those this week and hopefully we can reap those rewards later this week.”
PLUS: All Blacks kick on to break down Boks
Photo: Roger Sedres/Gallo Images
The post Jordie looking for an edge over Doogz appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
All Blacks centre Jordie Barrett reckons variation on attack is needed to counter the defensive pressure of world-class Springbok rivals Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel.
The post Jordie looking for an edge over Doogz appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
