The All Blacks' Future Hangs in the Balance: Scott Robertson's Toughest Challenge Yet
Murray Mexted, a former All Blacks loose forward, believes that the upcoming tour of South Africa will be a make-or-break moment for the team. This will be the first time since 1996 that New Zealand will face off against the Springboks and other top South African teams. Mexted emphasizes the importance of this series, stating that it will be a crucial test for the All Blacks before the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
In an interview with Martin Devlin on the DSPN podcast, Mexted highlighted the potential impact of winning the series on the team's chances of winning the Rugby World Cup. He mentioned the altitude challenge, noting that playing at sea level and altitude will significantly differ, providing an opportunity for the All Blacks to develop and prepare for the World Cup.
Despite his criticism of the All Blacks' recent performances, Mexted acknowledges the team's struggles and the need for improvement. He believes that the tour to South Africa is a chance for the team to turn things around and regain their reputation. Mexted's concern is that the team has been 'buggering around' for two years, tarnishing their image.
The All Blacks' future is at stake, according to Mexted, as the team must start winning consistently. He suggests that jobs could be on the line during the tour, though he doesn't specify whether it's the players or coaches. Mexted emphasizes the importance of this tour as a learning experience for the team, especially for Scott Robertson and his staff, who will face their 'hardest challenge' yet.
Mexted's statement, 'If you don’t bar up, you come second,' highlights the urgency of the situation. He believes that the All Blacks need to step up and prove their worth, especially in a sport where any team can beat any other, with the referee's decisions also influencing the outcome.
