Anton Lienert-Brown is the leading candidate to be named as a starting midfielder for the All Blacks against South Africa in a World Cup match on Saturday which will significantly shape the tournament for both teams.
Lienert-Brown, still only 24, is currently both the form centre and second-five for the All Blacks given his versatility and durability and he has to start in one of those positions at Yokohama because he is simply too good to leave out; a bit like loose forward Ardie Savea, who, after initially being regarded an impact player, demands to be on the field from the start.
The question is; where to play Lienert-Brown and who to partner him with, as Jack Goodhue hasn't played since pulling a hamstring against Australia in Perth on August 10 and Sonny Bill Williams has recently been troubled by a tight calf which kept him out of the warm-up against Tonga in Hamilton, but which hasn't seriously troubled him since, despite the wild recent rumours of his imminent return home which no doubt sent his phone abuzz.
Ryan Crotty did play in that match at Waikato Stadium; 65 minutes at No12 on his return from a broken thumb. He has proven his fitness and would be a helpful communicator outside his Crusaders teammate Richie Mo'unga, but that may not be enough to earn him selection. Finding the right two-player combination of the four available must rate as the toughest problem the selectors face this week.
For Lienert-Brown, playing alongside potential midfield partner Williams, now 34, is a dream come true and another opportunity on the biggest stage would be treasured.
