So Shannon Frizell is on the outer, Liam Squire has just started playing and everyone has gone cold on Vaea Fifita. So who is going to fill the blindside flanker’s jersey for the national side at the Rugby World Cup?
Rugby writer Steve Hepburn sorts through the contenders.
Liam Squire, 23 tests
Squire had ruled himself out of the black jersey so far this year but he is still a decent chance to head to Japan. It is a bit like Colin Slade in 2011. Slade broke his jaw and missed most of the season but, as he sat on the sideline, no-one performed and said ``pick me.'' If anything ,Slade got better in people's minds. Squire is the same perhaps. Can do things which few can. Chances: Not Winx but pretty high.
Shannon Frizell, 5 tests
It all came a bit too quickly for the man from Tonga. Scored three tries against the Blues and all of a sudden he is in the All Blacks. An athlete but faded out of games in the second half of the season for the Highlanders then got overlooked near the end. Too green in some ways. Chances: Roughie
Jackson Hemopo, 4 tests
Is an abrasive, strong player the selectors admire. Has made massive improvements over the past couple of years, and is a strong defender. But lack of time in the saddle on the blindside does not help the big man from Manawatu. Chances: Side bet
Luke Jacobson, 1 test
Came from nowhere to wear the black jersey against Argentina. Is on a rapid upward improvement curve and the sky appears to be the limit for the Chiefs flanker. Still a rookie but plenty to like about what we have seen. Chances: A good place chance
Vaea Fifita, 11 tests
Everyone seems to have an opinion on the Wellingtonian and not a lot of it is positive. Does some spectacular stuff at times and pops up all over the place. But the work ethic is questioned by many as is the ability to cough up penalties. Will be lucky to head away but does have some X-factor. Chances: Fading from form
Ardie Savea, 36 tests
Such has been his form this year, surely Savea must be in the starting team. He is all energy and power and never takes a back step. Still a top man to come off the bench but his form warrants a starting spot. Chances: Firming in
Scott Barrett, 29 tests
The Crusaders man had made large strides in the past couple of seasons. Started as a real grafter but has become more of a force around the ruck and also a good defender. But not overly athletic and also gives away plenty of penalties. Has the discipline of a 5-year-old child in a lolly shop. Chances: Plenty of talk but nothing to back it up.
Kieran Read, 119 tests
Plenty of questions have been asked about Read and whether he can still cut the mustard. Has half a dozen good games left in him one thinks. It is just not happening for Read but that generally occurs after a long career, a serious back operation and Father Time calling. But little chance of him moving from No 8. Chances: Long shot.