All Blacks Sweep France: Key Takeaways from the Series

The All Blacks have kicked off their season with a resounding 3-0 sweep over France, a series that may not have featured the full strength of the French team but still offered valuable insights into the future of New Zealand rugby.

A Win for Rugby, Not Just the All Blacks

While the French side was arguably not at its peak, the All Blacks' dominance was clear. The series was not only a win for the national team but also a demonstration of the sport's global appeal. All three matches were sold out, with the Wellington game drawing a massive crowd and a World Cup-sized media presence. This highlights the immense popularity of the All Blacks and the enduring appeal of Test rugby.

Fabian Holland Makes a Statement

One of the standout performers of the series was Fabian Holland, the towering 2.04m lock who made his debut as soon as he became eligible. His performance was impressive, especially considering he was one of the few inexperienced tight forwards to start all three tests. Holland’s readiness has already drawn comparisons to legends like Brodie Retallick, and he appears to have a bright future ahead of him.

Cam Roigard’s Crucial Role

The absence of Cam Roigard in the third test was a stark reminder of his importance to the All Blacks' game plan. His kicking and defensive skills were sorely missed, and it brought back memories of the days when Aaron Smith was a fixture in the starting lineup. Roigard’s return was a welcome sight for fans and a relief for the coaching staff.

Beauden Barrett’s Leadership Shines

Beauden Barrett, the 136-test veteran, solidified his place in the team with a series of assured performances. His flawless goal-kicking in Dunedin and his masterful playmaking in Wellington were instrumental in securing the All Blacks’ victories. Barrett’s leadership on the field was a key factor in the team’s success.

Adaptability in Attack

The All Blacks displayed a notable ability to change their attack patterns throughout the series. In Dunedin, they used a split set of forwards to create opportunities for Roigard, while in Wellington, they focused more on grouping around the ruck and using their wingers as extra ball runners. This flexibility in tactics will be a valuable asset as they face tougher opponents in the coming months.

Scott Robertson’s Strategic Move

This series was exactly what Scott Robertson needed to build momentum. The absence of a fully fit and strong England team provided the perfect opportunity to experiment with gameplay and selections. The head coach was able to make necessary adjustments and lay the groundwork for the upcoming challenges, including a tough trip to Argentina.

Squad Depth and Future Prospects

While the All Blacks have a strong core in the tight forwards and loose forwards, there remains a question mark over the outside backs. Will Jordan has clearly earned his starting spot, and with Caleb Clarke out, the competition for the remaining spots has opened up. The team’s depth in other positions, however, is a positive sign, with players like Holland and Patrick Tuipulotu showing they can step up when needed.

Looking Ahead

With the Rugby Championship still a month away, the All Blacks now have a long break to reflect, recover, and prepare for the challenges ahead. The team has shown it can adapt and overcome adversity, and with the right mix of experience and youth, they are well-positioned to continue their dominance on the international stage.