As the Super Rugby Pacific season draws to a close, the All Blacks are gearing up for the Nations Championship, and the pressure is on for some players to secure their spots in the 34-player squad. With a new selection panel in place, including former coach Graham Henry, the bar is set higher than ever for those vying for a place in the black jersey. Let's take a closer look at four players who are feeling the heat and the potential implications for the team's future.
Leroy Carter: The Wing Battle
Leroy Carter, a Chiefs wing and All Blacks Sevens flyer, had a breakout season in 2025, forming a prolific partnership with Emoni Narawa. His form was exceptional, with five try assists and a top-five finish in statistical categories for tries and defenders beaten. However, the wing position is hypercompetitive, with Caleb Tangitau, Leicester Fainga’anuku, and Will Jordan all in the running. The return of Fainga’anuku, who can play in the loose forwards, adds another layer of complexity. Carter's position is under threat, and he must prove his worth to retain his place, especially with Sevu Reece's departure.
Simon Parker: The Loose Forward Squeeze
Simon Parker, a bolter pick last season, filled the problematic blindside role for the All Blacks. However, he is now under pressure to retain his place in the loose forwards. With Devan Flanders heading overseas and Peter Lakai and Du’Plessis Kirifi vying for selection, Parker's position is precarious. The form No.6s in New Zealand, Ethan Blackadder and Dom Gardiner, offer more versatility and are increasing their chances as bolters. Parker could get squeezed between Segner, Blackadder, and Gardiner.
Billy Proctor: Centre Crisis
Centre is a problematic position for the All Blacks, with no real locked-in candidate. Billy Proctor, a good selection on his attacking form, has flaws in defence that have been exposed this season. The All Blacks shouldn't give up on him yet, but the fact that Quinn Tupaea was moved to 13 last year and excelled is a bad sign. The best option for the All Blacks is returning Blues centre Rieko Ioane from Leinster, who could be back in the 13 jersey with a change in coaching staff. Anton Lienert-Brown, a veteran All Black, is a dark horse, having played under Rennie at the Chiefs.
Finlay Christie: Halfback Battle
Finlay Christie, a Blues halfback, was a hero at Eden Park last year against the Springboks, but he was already battling to retain his place last year. Injuries to Cam Roigard and Noah Hotham saw Christie called up frequently, but with Hotham back in form and Cortez Ratima another young option, Christie may get squeezed. Xavier Roe has pushed Ratima to the bench, and Sam Nock is also getting more starts for the Blues, forcing Christie to a bench role. The smokey pick is Adam Lennox of the Highlanders, who has pushed two-cap All Black Folau Fakatava to the bench. Christie must force his way in as one of the three All Black halfbacks.
In conclusion, the All Blacks are facing a challenging selection process, and the pressure is on for these four players to prove their worth. The new selection panel, led by Graham Henry, will have a tough task ahead, and the team's future could hinge on the decisions made in the coming weeks. As the season draws to a close, the All Blacks must prepare for the Nations Championship, and the battle for selection is far from over.
