All Blacks coach Ian Foster has heralded the performance of loose forward Ethan Blackadder, who had easily his best test outing in New Zealand's 36-13 victory over Argentina at Brisbane.
In just his fifth test since making his debut in July, Blackadder, 26, was one of the All Blacks' best on show, as they closed within touching distance of wrapping up the Rugby Championship.
The versatile loose forward, selected at blindside flanker, made 11 tackles, 11 runs and caught the eye with an offload to Hoskins Sotutu, as part of the build-up to hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho's try in the second half.
The son of former All Blacks captain Todd Blackadder, his performance gives coach Foster an almighty headache for future team selections, with Akira Ioane also impressing in the No.6 jersey so far this year.
Foster admits his delight at seeing Blackadder take to test rugby, after establishing himself as a key cog in the all-conquering Crusaders side at Super Rugby level.
"What we got out of Ethan Blackadder's probably what we get out of him at every training since he's been in a black jersey," Foster says.
"He gives everything, he puts his body on the line, he trains hard. [I'm] just delighted for him that he was able just to keep duplicating what he's doing on Sunday to Friday.
"He's a top man… wears his heart on his sleeve, loves being in that black jersey.
"I think we saw that tonight again."
Blackadder's performance will certainly have him in the mix to keep the All Blacks No.6 jersey for their next encounter, their 100th encounter against South Africa in Townsville next Saturday.
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