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It is a sad week for not only New Zealand but world rugby. First the passing of the great Jonah Lomu, a man who changed the game and was rugby’s first legitimate superstar, and now one of the modern-day greats is retiring.
Richie McCaw’s announcement may not come as a surprise to many, but having it announced at a time when the rugby world is still mourning the loss of one of its giant stars is sad.
But I have hope. Having watched the ITM and Super Rugby tournaments this year, I am encouraged.
As a Kiwi looking at the prospects for 2016, I have faith Steve Hansen and co. won’t have an extreme problem, as people are making the exodus of All Black greats out to be.
In the four-year build-up to the next World Cup, we will start to see the fruits of planning from even before the 2015 World Cup.
Brad Shields from Wellington looks like a new number 6, Akira Ioane is a potential great, as are George Moala, Lima Sopoaga, and Charlie Ngatai.
There’s hope for a great pairing in Malakai Fekitoa (only 23) and Ryan Crotty. Throw in Brad Weber, Ardie Savea and James Lowe, and New Zealand’s depth hasn’t been this competitive in years.
Despite the death of a rugby great and the retirement of another, New Zealand rugby need not worry about its future.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.