The All Blacks' back three have given coach Steve Hansen a selection dilemma, following their strong showing in this afternoon's 92-7 victory over Tonga in Hamilton.
Returning to a traditional back three after making use of the dual-playmaker system for most of 2019, the trio of Ben Smith, Sevu Reece and George Bridge put Tonga to the sword, scoring seven of the All Blacks' 14 tries between them.
The performance means that Hansen now has options for the Rugby World Cup, should he wish to move away from a double pivot of Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga in the two playmaking roles.
Speaking to media after this afternoon's victory, Hansen spoke of his pleasure in watching the trio execute their gameplan.
"We saw them play well again, and we're very happy with that" Hansen said of Bridge and Reece.
"We saw Bender [Smith] come back in and play very well.
"The pressure's on, there's competition, and everybody will have to work really hard to make the 23, which is what you want when you're heading into a Rugby World Cup."
Rieko Ioane and Jordie Barrett are also in contention for roles in the All Blacks' back three, beginning their World Cup campaign against South Africa in Yokohama on September 21.
SHARE ME