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Israel Dagg: The highs and lows of Razor's first All Blacks season
Israel Dagg • November 25th, 2024 9:30 am
Photo: Photosport
After months of anticipation, Razor's debut season as head coach for the All Blacks has flown by, and what a ride it's been.
It feels like just yesterday we were all buzzing about this first team selection to face England in Dunedin. Fast forward, and the season has concluded with a scrappy win over a spirited Italian side.
Not quite the ending we expected. But let's focus on the bigger picture.
Razor's men delivered 10 wins from 14 Tests and introduced 12 debutants to the world stage.
Most of these fresh faces proved they could keep up with the best. Standout rookie was undoubtedly Wallace Sititi, who made an instant impact, silencing the Hoskin Sotutu to debate with performances that look like they came from a seasoned veteran.
Meanwhile, Cam Roigard has firmly cemented himself as the country's No. 1 halfback and, in time, he might just be the best in the world. Hell of a statement, I know.
Let's not forget the forward pack. Despite doubts at the start of the season, they stepped up, proving critical to the All Blacks' success.
But let's keep it real. It wasn't all smooth.
Discipline remains a major concern. Fourteen yellow cards this season put the team on the back foot too often. That is 140 minutes playing a man down throughout the season. You're going to have a struggle to get any sort of result with that kind of discipline lacking.
And then there's the discipline of the kicking game. At times, it felt aimless, needing more precision to capitalise on the opportunities.
Overall, though, it's a pass for the team. I honestly feel they are heading in the right direction and I cannot believe I'm saying that after 10 wins from 14. Those four losses usually would rattle me.
But I truly believe that there is a lot of growth and potential for this group going on past 2025.
I also want to touch on Sam Cane and TJ Perenara, two players that I played the majority of my career with. Absolute stand-out blokes.
Sammy Cane doesn't get the plaudits that he deserves. One of the true leaders and champions, a guy I have so much respect for. My good friend TJ Perenara - on the field speaks for itself, but it's off the field, where he's probably the most caring and considerate and thoughtful person I have ever met.
I have a great example of TJ's compassion. We were walking down Queen St, there was a homeless guy on the side of the road. TJ pulls out a $50 note and gives it to him. Then he goes back to his hotel, fills up his bag with All Blacks kit and three tickets to a Test match at Eden Park sitting with his family.
I will never forget the gesture and the smile that he put on that bloke's face, and that just sums up my good friend TJ Perenara.
