Three Players Who Could Use Super Rugby Aotearoa To Force Their Way Into The All Blacks Squad

Super Rugby Aotearoa, commencing on 13 June, will provide a welcome opportunity not only for players to get the blood running again, but for them to put their hands up to catch the ever-watchful eyes of the All Black selectors. We take a look at 3 youngsters who are, as yet, uncapped, but are in the process of putting together good cases for themselves.

Hoskins Sotutu:

The 1.92m, 106kg Blues number 8 has been nothing short of impressive in 2020. At only 21 years of age, he is a significantly exciting prospect for the future.

His energetic displays on the pitch are impossible to ignore as he attempts to be involved in as much of the action as possible. Solid in defence and fearless on the ground and with ball in hand, the youngster has proved himself as a highly effective number 8 and a key member of the Blues outfit.

Before the tournament was halted, Sotutu had played 448 minutes of rugby in which he managed 1 try, 70 carries, 8 clean breaks, 23 defenders beaten, 6 turnovers, 8 lineouts won and a 99% tackle success rate.

Sotutu has represented New Zealand at U20 level, winning 4 caps, but is no doubt staking a claim for higher honours.

Lachlan Boshier:

The Chiefs openside’s efforts on the ground have put him streets ahead of his opponents with an astonishing 17 turnovers in Super Rugby 2020 thus far. With his nearest competitor in this stat (Hurricanes flanker, Du’Plessis Kirifi) sitting on 11, Boshier’s yeoman work at the breakdown is in a class of its own.

While it may be a stretch to call him a bruising ball carrier, Boshier is not shy of contact and displays ample competence with ball in hand when it comes to handling and decision making. However, it is his mastery of the classic fetcher-style game that sets him apart and renders him a valuable asset in any team. It would be very surprising if he does not don the black jersey in the very near future.

Will Jordan:

One of the traditional treasured sights in rugby is a pacey fullback utilising space to carve up defence and turn it all into tries. Unfortunately, it is not as common as players and fans might hope, however, 22 year old Will Jordan seems to be well and truly sprinting down that path.

Since his debut in 2019, Jordan has 8 appearances for Super Rugby franchise, the Crusaders, with a total of 40 points under his belt.

Given any space, he exhibits superb pace and attacking skills. He is equally at home on the wing and, although still very green, would definitely make a lively option in the All Black backline.