Autumn Nations Series: All Blacks Player Ratings – A Rollercoaster Ride
So, the Autumn Nations Series is done and dusted. Another year, another mixed bag for the All Blacks. Let's be honest, some performances were chef's kiss, while others left us scratching our heads. This article dives deep into the individual player ratings, offering a brutally honest (but hopefully fair!) assessment. Buckle up, rugby fans – it's going to be a wild ride!
Backline Breakdown: Stars and Struggles
The All Blacks backline showed flashes of brilliance, but consistency was, shall we say, a work in progress.
Beauden Barrett: 7.5/10
Beauden consistently delivered moments of magic, showcasing his legendary game management skills. His kicking game was mostly on point, though a few missed penalties left us wanting more. He was a clear leader on the field.
Richie Mo'unga: 7/10
Mo'unga's attacking prowess was undeniable. However, his kicking accuracy was somewhat erratic, something that needs sharpening up for future games. A solid performance overall, though.
Jordie Barrett: 8/10
Jordie was an absolute standout. His attacking runs, his defensive tackles, and his deadly boot made him one of the top performers this Autumn Nations Series. A true all-rounder.
Caleb Clarke: 7/10
Clarke's pace and power were electrifying. He’s a dangerous weapon on the wing. However, he could improve his ball-carrying decision-making under pressure.
Forward Frenzy: A Mixed Bag of Nuts
The All Blacks forwards were… well, a bit of a mixed bag. Some shone brightly, while others struggled to find their rhythm.
Sam Cane (Captain): 6.5/10
As captain, Cane's leadership was visible, although his overall impact on the field wasn’t as consistent as in previous years. A few missed tackles and lost lineouts need to be ironed out.
Ardie Savea: 8.5/10
Savea was, as always, a force of nature. His work rate was phenomenal, his tackles bone-jarring, and his ball-carrying was brutal. A clear standout performer for the All Blacks. Simply put, a legend!
Ethan Blackadder: 7/10
Blackadder’s work at the breakdown was impressive. His work-rate impressed most commentators. He offered solid support throughout the games.
Will Jordan: 8/10
Jordan continued his sensational form. He's consistently brilliant in attack and defense, showing why he's a key player. Truly exceptional.
Overall Thoughts: Room for Improvement
While there were some truly inspiring performances, the Autumn Nations Series highlighted areas where the All Blacks need to improve. Consistency and accuracy, particularly in the kicking game and set-piece play, are key priorities for future matches. They still showed some spectacular flair, and the talent is undeniable; it’s simply a matter of refining the rough edges and creating the seamless performance they're capable of. With the next Rugby World Cup on the horizon, there's plenty of time to get it right. Let's see what they can do next! Bring on the next series!