Rugby: Back up No 10s much in demand

Matt Berquist. Photo / Getty Images

Any hopes the Blues had of securing Matt Berquist for next season have been dashed as the Auckland first five has signed with the Crusaders.

Stephen Brett has confirmed he will be available for the Blues and the other leading first fives-eighths - Dan Carter (Crusaders), Aaron Cruden (Hurricanes), Mike Delany and Stephen Donald (Chiefs) and Colin Slade (Highlanders) - are also locked in.

But next year's tournament will run in an extended, conference format and having strength in key positions will be vital.

The All Black coaches are meeting their Super 15 counterparts next week with a view to determining how much rest frontline test players will need during the campaign.

Graham Henry has already said he believes franchise coaches will have to trust their extended squads and use their back-up men.

Given the strategic importance of first fives, particularly at Super 15, it's vital every franchise finds a reliable second option at No 10.

This year the Blues picked up Daniel Kirkpatrick in the draft and the Hawke's Bay man could be an option to return but will no doubt be chased by the Hurricanes for whom he previously played.

The Hurricanes need a replacement for Willie Ripia, who will join the Western Force. North Harbour's Mike Harris has played well and looks ready to have a crack at the next level.

The Chiefs with Delany and Donald have the strongest duo and also have the emerging Trent Renata to consider - possibly for their wider squad.

The other four teams are decidedly short of alternatives, which is why the Crusaders have moved to snaffle Berquist, who has played for the Highlanders for the last two seasons as well as a one-off campaign in 2004.

A Hawke's Bay regular since 2005, the 27-year-old was going to head offshore this year but couldn't nail a contract.

Auckland picked him up and his maturity, composure and experience at the higher level was enough to persuade the Crusaders to make him an offer.

The Crusaders are also thought to be keen on contracting New Zealand under-20 captain Tyler Bleyendaal. They need to rebuild their resources as they have lost Slade and Daniel Bowden from this season.

The Highlanders used both Berquist and Michael Hobbs this year. Slade gives them a high-quality starter but they need to secure someone else. Robbie Robinson is deemed a fullback, especially with Israel Dagg joining the Crusaders.