Since Jerome Kaino left his post, the All Blacks had been waiting for a player to step up and claim the No. 6 jersey as their own. In 2023, Shannon Frizell finally did. Now he’s heading overseas and the All Blacks are back where they started. Christopher Reive looks at some of 2024′s likely candidates to get a shot at filling the void.
Ethan Blackadder - Crusaders
For many, Blackadder will be the top choice. He brings a physical presence, with a big engine and a huge work rate around the park. Blackadder got the World Cup call ahead of Samipeni Fianu (see below), so that might be an indication of the pecking order, while incoming coach Scott Robertson is familiar with Blackadder and knows what he bring. However, there are huge question marks around his durability. Perhaps it’s a result of said desire for work and physicality that he has spent a lot of time in the casualty ward in the last couple of years. Blackadder made his All Blacks debut in 2021, but was kept out of the squad due to a shoulder issue in 2022, then had his 2023 campaign disrupted by leg injuries for most of 2023.
Samipeni Finau - Chiefs
An unlucky exclusion from the All Blacks’ World Cup squad, Finau did himself no disservice through his opportunities in the black jersey during the Rugby Championship this year. The 24-year-old was said to have impressed All Blacks forward coach Jason Ryan this year with his ability to provide a traditional blindside enforcer role - run, hit, carry and clean hard. Finau has the added asset of his height, which makes him a reliable lineout target, while he can also get up to challenge opponents’ throws. He will have plenty of opportunities to press his case for an All Blacks return in 2024 in a new-look Chiefs team.