All Blacks: Earlier the better for Cruden

Hurricanes first-five Aaron Cruden was one of four new players named in the All Blacks squad today. Photo / Getty Images

Aaron Cruden's meteoric rise to the All Blacks has been applauded by his provincial rugby coach.

Manawatu coach Dave Rennie backs the promotion of the 21-year-old first five-eighth for tests next month against Ireland and Wales, saying his selection for the All Blacks was always a distinct possibility.

Cruden is coming off his maiden campaign with the Hurricanes in the Super 14 competition, but Rennie reckons he already has the goods for test rugby.

"I'm not surprised that he's made it," Rennie said today after Cruden was one of four newcomers named in the All Blacks' 26-man squad.

"I think it was always a matter of when. There had already been talk about what would be best for him in regards to whether he was brought in now by the All Blacks selectors or may be play him in the Maori side, have another NPC season and take him on the end-of-year tour.

"They're obviously looking ahead to the World Cup next year and the quicker they get him in the environment the quicker he will develop."

Cruden was eased into the Super 14 this year, with Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper using him off the bench for the early rounds before he gained a regular starting spot ahead of Willie Wipia as the season progressed.

Today's selection caps a stunning rise for Cruden, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2008. He had one testicle removed and underwent nine weeks of chemotherapy before being medically cleared.

Last year he was in stunning form as he captained New Zealand to the world under-20 title, and picked up the International Rugby Board's junior player of the year award.

Now, he finds himself as the understudy to Dan Carter in an All Blacks team to play Ireland at New Plymouth on June 12 ahead of two tests against Wales at Dunedin and Hamilton.

Rennie said Cruden would not be out of place in the national side.

"He's a very mature player for his age. He's very mentally strong and he's a constant threat with ball in hand.

"Because of that you've got to organise your defence around him because he creates space as well. He adds another dimension to attack."

For the Hurricanes, Cruden was used principally as a ball runner and distributor but Rennie reckons his kicking game is of the required standard too.

"He's got a good enough kicking game. He wasn't given a lot of responsibility in that regard for the Hurricanes but hopefully within the All Blacks environment he will get a lot of opportunity and assistance to show that he can dictate a game with his boot as well.

"He is a good punter of the ball and one thing with Aaron is that he is a hard worker. He's very tough on himself so he will be keen to listen and learn."

- NZPA