Jordie Barrett has cemented himself as the All Blacks' 'go-to' man in the No.15 jersey, after his displays in the Rugby Championship, according to former NZ fullback Mils Muliaina.
After having to hold off competition from brother Beauden, Damian McKenzie and Will Jordan, Barrett has made the All Blacks fullback spot his own over the last two matches.
Barrett, 24, excelled against the Springboks' kick-intensive strategy in both Townsville and on the Gold Coast, as the All Blacks finished the Rugby Championship with a win and a loss against their old foes.
Aside from his abilities as a fullback, Barrett also shone with the boot, notably landing a vital penalty in the 19-17 win over the Springboks at Townsville.
That form and all-round ability should see Barrett instilled as the All Blacks fullback for the forseeable future, 100-test veteran Muliaina has told Sky Sport's Breakdown.
"Is he now [first choice]? I think he has to be," says Muliaina.
"I think the element you've bought in terms of [goal kicking], he's really stepped up. That's maturity.
"He's taken it off his brother as well, but his accuracy in big moments - against South Africa too - he's just thrived on regular game time.
"When you look at someone like Damian McKenzie, you've got to feel for him. He started those first internationals as the fullback, Jordie gets an opportunity… he's taken it.
"Where does he go to now? He's just running so hot, I'd keep him out there.
"He's stamped his mark on that. His goal-kicking, his ability in the air, but also his strength... he's really coming into that sort of mould.
"He's really getting comfortable, so you've got to keep him out there."
The All Blacks are currently on a week off on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, before returning to training for their northern hemisphere tour later this month.
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