All Blacks vs France: Damian McKenzie on battle for No 10 jersey as Scott Robertson backs Beauden Barrett

There are three certainties in life: death, taxes and the nationwide debate about who should wear the All Blacks No 10 jersey.

Veteran Beauden Barrett has been given the nod by coach Scott Robertson to steer the team at first five-eighths for a second consecutive week, with Damian McKenzie named on the bench.

Speaking to Newstalk ZB’s Heather du Plessis-Allan this morning, McKenzie said he remained patient in the battle for the jersey, focused on nailing his role as a bench player.

“Beaudy had a great game last weekend. He’s obviously a world-class 10, and I’ve been lucky enough to learn off him for a number of years.

“He’s obviously got the job of leading the team for a start and I guess, you know, maybe my opportunity may come later in the series or at a later date.”

The 62-test All Black unexpectedly took the field in the first minute of the first test against the French – and had a solid 79-minute outing – after winger Sevu Reece suffered a concussion.

Caleb Clarke has been brought into the starting XV to replace Reece, and Will Jordan will again start at fullback, which sees McKenzie revert to the bench.

“When my opportunity comes, just making sure I make the most of it,” he said. “But my role at the moment is just bringing that impact off the bench and making sure I do a good job there.”

The 30-year-old said one area the All Blacks had been extensively fine-tuning throughout the week was contesting high balls – a weak point in last week’s narrow 31-27 win.

“I think it’s a lot more difficult now with receiving a high ball. I mean, not too long ago, you were able to escort back, which gave your catcher at the back a bit of help to get a free catch on the ball, but now it’s sort of a free run.

“Obviously, a lot of people think it’s maybe something we need to work on and we’re always working on it ... I don’t think it’s definitely a strength of ours for sure, but I just don’t think it’s easier than what it used to be.”

He said the team’s kicking game would be important this weekend as adverse weather conditions roll into Wellington from this afternoon.

Meanwhile, France coach Fabien Galthie has overhauled his side for the second test, making 10 changes to last week’s starting squad.

“I think they’ve got some outstanding depth,” McKenzie said of the French.

“Obviously, they had a lot of new faces playing in the team and they’ve got probably a more inexperienced side than they’d usually have at full strength, but I mean it’s one person steps aside, one guy steps up.

“They’ve always been a strong rugby nation and they get better every year ... We expected what we got on Saturday and we know we’re going to expect a lot more this weekend too.”

For live commentary of this weekend’s All Blacks vs France test, go to GOLD SPORT or iHeartRadio.

You can also find live updates at nzherald.co.nz.

Benjamin Plummer is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers sport and breaking news. He has worked for the Herald since 2022.