Who be the new DC?

New Zealand rugby, despite its enormous success over the last, well ever, has had its fair share of issues. 2011 marked a pivotal moment in their history as they finally broke their World Cup hoodoo pipping the (we're comfortable with our sexuality) French in a helluva tense final. Prior to that, though, there was an air of vulnerability mixed in with their imposing aura. One area where the All Blacks have been oh so steady, however is at the position of fly half. Funny that Dan Carter didn't actually feature for the majority of the World Cup with Stephen Donald arriving to finish the job after being interrupted from his morning session with his favourite sheep Fiona to knock over the winning penalty wearing Frodo Baggins' replica All Black jersey. DC has been the best number 10 in world rugby for ages and although he hasn't actually retired he isn’t currently available.

The question remains as to who is the next All Black starting pivot? Aside from France, most international sides aim to decide on one player to have the role with the obvious room for maneuvering if things don't work out. The Frogs, as is their style, adopt a different approach flitting between number 10s like David Moyes' mind about whether there is indeed light at the end his nightmarish Manchester tunnel. The All Blacks, as is the unfortunate nature of their incredible depth, have a number of strong candidates for the role.

Aaron Cruden probably entered Super Rugby this season as the favourite for the spot. If anyone, he was the incumbent but would have known that a challenge stiffer than Andy Murray's mom's lip would come from Beauden Barrett. Cruden suffered a big set-back due to injury and his return to the Chiefs couldn’t have come at a worse time. The Chiefs have slumped badly in recent weeks. Their playoff hopes remain alive by virtue of the fact that the international window is upon us allowing Dave Rennie to rally his troops but where the team benefits from timing, its All Black hopefuls do not. Cruden is not the only Chief left pondering his chances of making the starting 15 with Liam Messam, Sam Cane and Tawera Kerr-Barlow coming off sub-par form.

Beauden Barrett has been sensational this season. He has improved the consistency of his general play and his kicking, both out of hand and from the tee is basically beyond reproach. Cruden has more experience for the All Blacks and is a truly talented player but I would expect Beaudy to get the nod for the first test against England this coming weekend over Cruden and the resurgent Colin Slade.