OPINION: Richie Mo’unga is the best flyhalf in the world

It has been debated whether Richie Mo’unga should start at flyhalf for the All Blacks, but his recent form has meant that not only is he the best No 10 in New Zealand, but the world.

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NEW ZEALAND BLESSED AT 10

New Zealand has been exceptionally fortunate with an illustrious lineage of ‘first five-eighth’, spanning from the esteemed Andrew Mehrtens and the “King” Carlos Spencer, to the legendary Dan Carter, often lauded as the GOAT, and the gifted Aaron Cruden, with more recent stars like Beauden Barrett gracing the field. Adding to this distinguished tradition, the nation has another legendary flyhalf in Richie Mo’unga, the new prince of the pivot.

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MO’UNGA’S MASTERCLASS AGAINST BOKS

In the game against South Africa, Richie Mo’unga displayed an exceptional performance that solidified his game. Scoring an impressive 20 points against the reigning world champions, he showcased his prowess off the boot by nailing three penalties and converting three tries. Notably, he even beat South Africa’s Flyhalf, Damian Willemse, as he skillfully skipped past him to score a try of his own. However, it was Mo’unga’s precise kicking from hand that made him truly devastating. Every kick strategically found its place in Springbok’s no man’s land or was expertly weighted to create pressure on the opposition. After witnessing such an outstanding performance, even the staunchest Mo’unga sceptics would have their doubts put to rest.

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CRUSADERS’ COMMANDING REIGN

Under the guidance of “Razor” Robertson, the Crusaders, led by Richie Mo’unga, have achieved a phenomenal ‘sevenpete,’ securing seven consecutive Super Rugby titles. This extraordinary accomplishment comprises 3 Super Rugby titles, 2 Super Rugby Aotearoa titles, and 2 Super Rugby Pacific titles. Richie Mo’unga has been the driving force behind the team’s triumphs; although in the past, he initially faced challenges translating his Crusaders form into the All Blacks jersey, it seems as though Richie Mo’unga has now managed to overcome those hurdles.

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RICHIE MO’UNGA: RISING ABOVE COMPETITION

Local competition

Throughout the years, Richie Mo’unga has faced formidable competition for the coveted black 10 jersey, contending with the likes of the two-time World Player of the Year, Beauden Barrett, the dynamic Chiefs fly half Damian McKenzie, and the international outcast Lima Sopoaga. Nevertheless, Mo’unga has consistently proven his mettle, emerging as the first-choice 10 for the All Blacks, a well-deserved position.

International competition:

On the international stage, Mo’unga faces several challengers for his crown, but none possess the same well-rounded skill set as he does. With a running game comparable to Marcus Smith’s, field general expertise akin to Johnny Sexton, and the physicality not far off of Handre Pollard, Mo’unga truly stands out. Additionally, his accuracy with the boot is exceptional, as demonstrated by his impressive 84% success rate in the Rugby Championship last year, converting 27 out of 32 kicks. These qualities make Richie Mo’unga the best pivot in the game.

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Rugby World Cup 2023

2023 is set to be an immense year for rugby as the world’s most significant rugby tournament approaches, and this year promises to be the tightest competition ever. The three-time champion All Blacks are consistently strong contenders for the Rugby World Cup, and the upcoming event will be no different. Should New Zealand make it all the way in the upcoming tournament, it’s almost certain that Richie Mo’unga will be a key player in their journey.

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MO’UNGA IS THE BEST FLYHALF IN THE GAME

Richie Mo’unga possesses skills that leave other fly halves envious. He not only excels as a sharpshooter off the boot but also showcases exceptional kicking from hand. Some may argue he’s primarily a running flyhalf with his quick turn of pace and beautifully deceptive side step, but Mo’unga’s precision as the best kicking flyhalf in the game cannot be denied. His kicks are so accurate that they could pick off a fly from a distance. His cross kicks create opportunities, and his sky-high ‘Gary Owen’ puts even the most veteran fullback under pressure.

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