All Blacks: Jordie Barrett preparing for aerial assault from Argentina
Jordie Barrett at the end of the 2021 Rugby Autumn Nations Series match between Italy and All Blacks/New Zealand at the Olimpic Stadium (Stadio Olimpico) in Rome, Italy, on November 6, 2021. (Photo by Lorenzo Di Cola/NurPhoto)
All Blacks full-back Jordie Barrett is expecting an aerial bombardment when they face Argentina in their Rugby Championship Test in Christchurch on Saturday.
Los Pumas were superb when kicking out of hand in their previous Test against Australia in San Juan and their excellent aerial game played a big part in securing them a record 48-17 victory over the Wallabies.
Not taking Argentina lightly
Barrett is wary of a similar performance from Michael Cheika’s charges this weekend as New Zealand look to build on a recent win over South Africa.
“They’ve scored quite a few tries from kick pressure and guys getting up and retaining the ball,” he told reporters.
“We spent a lot of time preparing for South Africa catching contestables, but I think we’ll have to prepare the same for the Argentinians, if not more.”
That triumph over Australia means Argentina currently occupy first position on the Rugby Championship table – by virtue of a superior points difference over Australia – and Barrett believes Los Pumas will continue with the game-plan which brought them success in San Juan.
“They’ve got some outstanding athletes, great on their feet and awesome in the air, so it’s going to be a big week for the back three,” he said. “They’re a physical and passionate team, and also Dave Kidwell [is] there for their defence, so they’re a quality side.
“They can score tries from anywhere, and a lot of the time it is, I say, unconventional in the most respectful way.
“They’ve got some outstanding footwork, particularly midfield and outside backs, and their forwards have a good short-passing game now. I’ve seen a lot of variation in their game where their props and locks and hookers are tipping and throwing inside balls. They’ve got a diverse game plan we have to come prepared for.”
Joe Schmidt’s influence
Joe Schmidt has been added to the All Blacks‘ backroom staff as their new attack coach – a promotion from his previous roles as analyst and selector – and Barrett is looking forward to working with the former Ireland boss.
“He’s a confident coach and he watches a lot of clips from what I’ve been hearing,” he said. “I’ve got a couple of tips off the Blues boys in where his strengths are so I’ll be looking to get the best out of them.”
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