Barrett's defensive capabilities were particularly noteworthy. He executed several powerful tackles that notably disrupted the Australian offensive efforts. This physicality is something that has become more pronounced in Barrett's gameplay, especially following his six-month tenure with Leinster last year.
"He's been phenomenal all year. He was outstanding in South Africa, I just think he's taken his game to another level,"
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie praised Barrett's evolved skill set and his impressive stamina and impact throughout the game. Despite a concerning hematoma, Barrett managed to play most of the match, only substituted with about ten minutes remaining.
The influence of Barrett was not lost on his teammates either. All Blacks captain Codie Taylor commended Barrett’s almost forward-like physicality, which has been crucial in their recent matches.
"He could probably have a six, seven or eight on his back and he wouldn't look out of place. He's one of those men who’s physical,"
Amidst changes in the team's lineup, Damian McKenzie, who typically played at full-back, stepped into the fly-half position due to injuries within the team. McKenzie's performance, supported by Barrett's robust playmaking, was instrumental in the team's dominant display against the Wallabies.
"He's such a good player isn't he? As I mentioned earlier in the week, we've lost Ruben and Richie but we’ve got the two guys who mostly played 10 last year, or the last few years, so we’re fortunate we’ve got really good depth there," Rennie commented on McKenzie’s adaptability and performance.
This game not only underscored Barrett’s significant development as a player but also highlighted the strategic depth and adaptability of the All Blacks, characteristics that will serve them well in upcoming fixtures. As the team celebrates their victory and the retention of the Bledisloe Cup, the spotlight remains firmly on Barrett, whose current form suggests he could be among the best in his position globally.
