The Blues are undefeated through three rounds of the competition. Photo / Photosport
The Blues are undefeated through three rounds of the competition. Photo / Photosport
Three weeks into Super Rugby Aotearoa, Christopher Reive ranks the top performers.
AllBlacks
Consistently among the hardest working players on the field, Patrick Tuipulotu holds down the top spot for another week. Tuipulotu continues to provide an immense presence across the park for the Blues, getting results at the breakdown, performingwell in set pieces and being strong on defence. Damian McKenzie leaps into second spot despite his Chiefs being without a win, while Aaron Smith rounds out the top three with another solid performance.
Started the season in terrific form in all areas, with his work on the defensive side of the ball particularly impressive.
2. Ofa Tuungafasi 3. Joe Moody
Hookers
1. Codie Taylor
While still having the odd issue at the lineout, Taylor's work in the other areas of the game more than made up for it at the weekend. He was among the Crusaders' leading tacklers, got involved at he breakdown and carried the ball well.
Another impressive 80-minute performance sees Tuipulotu hold down his spot for the third week in a row. He continues to find ways to make an impact in all areas of the game.
2. Josh Dickson 3. Sam Whitelock
Loose forwards
Hoskins Sotutu makes a run from the scrum. Photo / Photosport
1. Hoskins Sotutu
Sotutu continues to make a massive impact at the back of the scrum for the Blues with a strong defensive game to back up what can be a damaging attacking skill set.
2. Dalton Papali'i 3. Sam Cane
Halfbacks
1. Aaron Smith
Smith's influence and leadership is a big reason why the Highlanders are exceeding many people's expectations of them in the competition.
There's not a whole lot Black is doing wrong right now and it's a factor in the success the Blues are having. He continues to hold his own defensively, manage the attack effectively and his kicking game has been superb.
2. Richie Mo'unga 3 . Mitch Hunt
Midfielders
1. Rieko Ioane
It's fair to say Ioane didn't have the best week, but looking at the season as a whole he's been the best of the midfielders through three rounds.
2. Anton Lienert-Brown 3. Quinn Tupaea
Wings
1. Caleb Clarke
Strength, speed and skill make Clarke a huge asset to the Blues. He's hard to bring down when he gets the chance to find top gear and his ability to find teammates makes him even more of an attacking threat.
2. Sevu Reece 3. Mark Telea
Fullbacks
1. Damian McKenzie
McKenzie continues to thrive with the No15 on his back, but Will Jordan is nipping away at his heels. McKenzie's work rate with the Chiefs has been huge this season, leading the competition in carries with 46 – 10 more than the next closest player.
