Barrett's Return to Starting Line-up

By Liam Carter — 9 August 2026 — 4 min read

Barrett’s Return to Starting Line-up

All Blacks assistant coach Neil Barnes has expressed satisfaction with Beauden Barrett’s performance against the Stormers in Cape Town. Barnes noted that the veteran first-five should be pleased with his efforts, marking his first start for the All Blacks in 2026 under new head coach Dave Rennie. Barrett had not been selected for the three July Nations Championship fixtures prior to this match.

Rennie had previously opted for Hurricanes first-five Ruben Love in the No.10 jersey during the three home victories. However, Love was rested for the initial match of the seven-week Greatest Rivalry Tour. Barrett, playing at No.10 alongside Cortez Ratima and Josh Moorby in playmaking roles, aimed to keep the ball in hand from the start of the game.

The Blues playmaker demonstrated moments of threat during his 68-minute appearance, though he also made a couple of errors. Barnes, speaking to New Zealand media in Cape Town before the team’s flight to Durban for a fixture against the Sharks, described Barrett’s contribution as “outstanding.”

Coach’s Assessment and Team Preparation

Barnes highlighted Barrett’s leadership within the team, acknowledging that this was his first start in a considerable period. He stated, “He’s been outstanding. He’s a leader in our team. That’s his first hit out in quite a long time, so if I were him, I’d be pretty pleased with his efforts.”

Before the tour’s first game, Rennie had expressed confidence in Barrett, noting his strong training in the lead-up. Rennie remarked on Barrett’s experience, stating, “He’s smart, he’s played games for this country, so he won’t try and overplay his hand.” He added that Barrett’s role was to implement and organise those around him according to the team’s clear plan of play.

Barrett himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity to wear the No.10 jersey but indicated he would resist the urge to overplay. He mentioned that the break had allowed him to work on his game and refresh. He also acknowledged the team’s attack-focused game plan, which he believes aligns with their playing style and aims to create a free-flowing game for fans.

The veteran player is conscious of not overdoing it, particularly after a few weeks between games. He emphasised controlling emotions and temptations, and trusting his preparation. Barrett’s selection also presented an interesting match-up against a younger player who has expressed admiration for Barrett.

Barnes also provided insight into the preparation for the non-playing side ahead of their next fixture against the Sharks. He explained that the team has trained cohesively to maintain alignment, with a focus on good days of work in preparation for upcoming matches.

Other Key Opportunities on Tour

Other players receiving significant opportunities on the tour include loose forward Simon Parker, who started at blindside flanker after not featuring in the three Tests last month. Rieko Ioane also started in the No.11 jersey following a period in Ireland. Parker was named alongside No.8 Wallace Sititi and openside flanker Peter Lakai for the match against the Stormers.

Ethan Blackadder, one of the newcomers to the squad, was on the reserves bench at DHL Stadium. The loose forward trio is expected to be a highly contested area throughout the tour, especially with Ardie Savea remaining in New Zealand ahead of the first Test in Johannesburg. Parker is considered to be in contention for a spot in the first Test team, competing with players like Anton Segner, Sititi, Blackadder, and potentially Lakai.

Ioane’s competition for the left wing spot includes Caleb Clarke, who was on the bench, and Josh Moorby, who started at fullback. Moorby’s ability to perform “brilliantly at the basics” has impressed the coaching staff, with Rennie noting his understated yet effective play. Moorby’s consistency and knack for creating space have been highlighted as key attributes.

Rennie praised Moorby, stating, “He’s been impressive. He’s quite understated. His ability to do the obvious is a real point of difference. He knows when to run, when to pass, how to connect.” He added that Moorby’s strong kicking game and ability under the high ball are assets, anticipating he will get practice in those areas. The All Blacks team against the Stormers included George Bower, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Pasilio Tosi, Fabian Holland, Patrick Tuipulotu (C), Simon Parker, Peter Lakai, Wallace Sititi, Cortez Ratima, Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Anton Lienert-Brown, Billy Proctor, Leroy Carter, and Josh Moorby. Reserves included Asafo Aumua, Ollie Norris, Siale Lauaki, Sam Darry, Ethan Blackadder, Kyle Preston, Josh Jacomb, and Caleb Clarke.