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All Blacks rookies rising to the occasion in Test-match pressure cooker
SENZ • September 23rd, 2024 1:26 pm
Photo: Photosport
While the All Blacks are yet to truly hit their straps as a collective in their first year under Scott Robertson, there have been some stand-out newcomers who have taken their opportunities with both hands.
The two most exceptional examples have been forward Wallace Sititi and Cortez Ratima, who were among the best on the park during Saturday's Bledisloe Cup clincher in Sydney.
According to former All Blacks halfback and SENZ co-host Steve Devine, the Chiefs duo are irrefutable proof that Robertson's ability to identify and develop young talent is one of his biggest strengths.
Devines notes Robertson had a similar impact at the Crusaders, where he took over during a transitional period amid a slew of departing stars, including the likes of Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, before promoting the next generation of talent that would guide them to unprecedented run of Super Rugby success.
"You can't doubt his ability to be able to pick a kid," Devine told SENZ Mornings.
"I think I was the most outspoken person about Wallace Sititi's selection and that he should have been taking Hoskins Sotutu.
"But well played Razor. I have to applaud - he's seen some talent, he's picked the kid and he's produced already."
Devine - who played points at Ratima as proof of what consistent game time in the Test-match environment can bring out of a player.
"There's big pressure situations. It's intense and keeps the country on the edge of their seats but we've got a lot of kids who will be learning, and it's working. Look at Ratima on the weekend, he was was outstanding.
"He's had a few weeks in the hot seat and he's starting to get his head around what Test football is."
Listen to the full interview below:
