Make no mistake: The All Blacks need Cam Roigard in the lineup against Scotland. Resting him? That's a gamble with potentially huge consequences. But here’s where it gets controversial... some argue he hasn't been running enough, but is that really a weakness? Experts Scotty Stevenson and Pat McKendry break down why Roigard is indispensable.
PM: Scotty, remember how some Irish media outlets declared the All Blacks were ripe for the taking before their recent clash? I'd argue they were simply finding their rhythm. Once they did, they proved to be a formidable force. What’s your take on a Test victory that kept the Grand Slam hopes alive?
SS: (Chuckles) Ah, that familiar narrative. Every year, our esteemed colleagues in the northern hemisphere type it out with hopeful fingers. The truth is, Ireland did have a chance, but they let it slip away in the final quarter as their energy flagged. How often have we seen that happen before? It was a disjointed first half as the All Blacks struggled to sync their execution with their energy, especially with a one-man advantage. And let's not underestimate the disruption caused by losing two of the Barrett brothers early on. That's a massive blow to any team. But here's the key: they adapted.
What's most encouraging is how the team visibly grew into the game. Josh Lord had a standout performance, as did Wallace Sititi. The extended squad provided the boost that's been missing this season. Quinn Tupaea continues to impress and absolutely deserves to retain his midfield spot. Big Leicester Fainga’anuku looked even more impactful with increased playing time. Given the history of these matches in recent years, the All Blacks and their fans would happily accept a 13-point victory.
Pat, let's talk about the game itself. A 52-minute first half, constant TMO interventions, confusing interpretations... did the officiating merry-go-round diminish the overall experience?
PM: Absolutely. The technical issues with the big screen created a chaotic atmosphere, and the pitch looked patchy even before kickoff. Add to that the pedantic refereeing of Pierre Brousset, which constantly halted the game, and it was frustrating for the first 60 minutes. "Merry-go-round of officiating" is the perfect description. The red card for Tadhg Beirne, in my opinion, was excessive. Different officials might have made a different call, which is simply the reality of the game today.
The positives for the All Blacks, beyond their frustration at not being able to fully unleash their running game until the final quarter, were how they handled the loss of the two Barretts, their late scrum dominance, improved discipline compared to their opponents, and the impactful performances from all eight reserves. Tupaea and Fainga’anuku were outstanding in the midfield and should remain there against Scotland. It makes you wonder why coach Razor took so long to integrate Fainga’anuku into the midfield. I've been advocating for him for ages!
There's a big Test against England looming after Scotland, but the selectors can't afford too many changes, especially now that the backline is finally showing cohesion. Or can they? This is where opinions may differ. Should they stick with what's working, or experiment with the future in mind?
SS: There was a time when Scotland was considered an easier opponent, allowing the All Blacks to rest key players. But I don't think they can afford that this weekend. Two reasons: First, Scotland, under the guidance of the shrewd Gregor Townsend, will be at full strength at Murrayfield, fresh off a dominant win against the United States. Second, as you mentioned, we saw glimpses of this team's attacking potential in Chicago, and it would be a waste to disrupt that momentum now. And this is the part most people miss... it's not just about individual brilliance, but about building consistency.
For me, the backline should remain unchanged. There's room on the bench for a fresh face – maybe Rieko Ioane, Anton Leinert-Brown, or Billy Proctor – but the starters seem well-suited. The pack could handle a reshuffle, but the mix felt right in Chicago. Shutting down Finn Russell's options will be a top priority for the inside backs. Tupaea has the smarts for defensive plays and is best equipped to close down Russell's access to outside runners in tight spaces. I've mentioned him repeatedly because he's been a revelation since his first appearance this season. The All Blacks have been searching for a midfield partner for Jordie Barrett's more controlled game plan. Does Tupaea strike you as the best option moving forward, or will Fainga’anuku eventually slot into center when J. Barrett returns?
PM: I believe Tupaea has earned the right to start at 13 if Jordie is fit, or 12 if not. He's been exceptional in his last two starts – winning turnovers, scoring tries, and setting them up. He deserves the selectors' trust. His physicality and decisiveness set him apart. Fainga’anuku should be the alternative center if Tupaea needs to replace Jordie for the rest of the tour, which I suspect will be the case. High ankle sprains can have notoriously long recovery times. I agree about the Scotland threat. It's real. And the England match the following week will be very challenging, making selection balance this week crucial. The backline should remain consistent for Scotland. Aside from Beauden Barrett at No. 10, Cam Roigard is the most influential playmaker for the All Blacks. He didn't run with the ball until late in the Ireland match, but it led to a try. Do you think Roigard is essential for the next two weekends?
SS: Absolutely. There was discussion about Roigard's lack of running in the first 50 minutes, but that showed his awareness of Ireland's defensive setup. When the opportunity arose later, he seized it. Roigard's importance can't be overstated. He kicks well, passes accurately, and his running ability keeps defenders on edge. I acknowledge that the key players may be asked to play three consecutive weeks, but isn't that how World Cups are won? Great practice for the upcoming tournament! Tactically, what changes, if any, do you anticipate from the All Blacks against Scotland?
PM: I agree about World Cup knockout matches. Consistency and cohesion are vital, and this is excellent preparation for next year in South Africa and the World Cup in Australia. Tactically, not much will change. Jason Ryan might be wary of Scotland's lineout threats, but the All Blacks will scrum for penalties early and often. That will likely be their entry point into the Test and their fallback plan if things get tough. From there, they'll seek space, potentially through a short kicking game and a direct route into Finn Russell's channel via Codie Taylor, Ardie Savea, Peter Lakai, Wallace Sititi, and others. Tupaea, if he starts at 12 as expected, will likely favor a direct approach as well. The All Blacks can't allow Scotland to gain a foothold, and Razor has stressed the importance of a strong start.
To wrap up, where will the Test be won, and who will come out on top?
SS: Man for man, this All Blacks team has more dynamism and skill than Scotland, Russell aside. The home side relies more on a single player than the All Blacks do, which will hurt them in the long run. Expect the All Blacks to play at pace again, but with more deep kicks, forcing Scotland to create plays from deep within their own territory. The packs will battle fiercely, but the visitors' superior bench power will be decisive. The All Blacks will take another step forward and win comfortably, by a margin of 12-20 points.
So, what do you think? Is Roigard truly indispensable? And will the All Blacks cruise to victory as predicted, or will Scotland pull off an upset? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
