Grading the All Blacks after the series whitewash against France

The All Blacks have completed a 3-0 series whitewash over an understrength French team, securing a clean sweep in a series that has been widely regarded as a test of their preparation ahead of the Rugby Championship. While the victory is a clear sign of strength, the performance has left much to be desired in terms of consistency and execution.

A B Grade for the Series Win

Coach Scott Robertson and his team have earned a fair grade of B for the series win. While the French squad was clearly not at their best, the All Blacks still had to work hard for their victories, especially in the first two matches. The third test in Hamilton saw them overcome a 10-point deficit, proving that the team is capable of grinding out results even when not at their peak.

Key Players in the Spotlight

Several players stood out during the series. Lock Fabian Holland performed to expectations, while stand-in captain Ardie Savea made a strong impact despite being shuffled to No. 8 at short notice. Fullback Will Jordan, in particular, was a standout performer, with his vision, timing, and speed making scoring tries look effortless. Halfback Cortez Ratima also played a crucial role, setting up key tries for Jordan.

Areas for Improvement

Despite the wins, the All Blacks showed signs of inconsistency. The final quarters of each match were described as “clunky,” with Brodie McAlister’s struggles in lineout throws highlighting the need for better execution under pressure. The team also needs to show more innovation on the field, as seen in the Springboks’ use of trick moves and legal tactics to gain an advantage.

Looking Ahead

The All Blacks now face a crucial two-game tour in Argentina, followed by matches against the Springboks in Auckland and Wellington. These games will be a true test of their ability to improve and adapt. With Scott Barrett expected to return from injury soon, the leadership role of Ardie Savea will be closely watched, as will the team’s ability to raise their level of performance consistently.

Conclusion

While the All Blacks have secured a clean sweep over France, the series has highlighted both strengths and weaknesses in the team’s current setup. The B grade is a fair reflection of their performance, but the real work is yet to come. With the Rugby Championship on the horizon, the team must address their inconsistencies and push for greater innovation and execution on the field.