McKenzie implied that the departure of current All Black No 10s Barrett and Mo’unga after this year’s World Cup swayed his contract decision by making the New Zealand option “a little bit more enticing”.
“Richie and Baz have set the benchmark - it would be great to step into that role,” McKenzie said.
“I’ve got to earn my way back into the All Blacks. I saw Razor after the game on Saturday and congratulated him and Scotty Hansen.
“At the moment Fozzie is coaching the team and I’ve got to earn his respect. I’ve had the odd conversation here and there - he gives me the odd feedback to work on and what he likes seeing.”
McKenzie had been “sitting on the fence” over his next contract but said, in the end, signing a two-year deal with New Zealand Rugby was an easy decision.
“I really enjoyed it over there [Japan] and I’m not closing the door on heading back there,” he said.
“Maybe the rugby is a little less physical when the body slows down a bit and you can set yourself up for life after rugby.
“But I’ve got unfinished business at the Chiefs and hopefully New Zealand rugby later down the track. Since coming back from Japan, I feel rejuvenated and refreshed, and realise how much I missed the Chiefs’ environment. There are a few exciting years ahead.
“I always back myself to play good rugby and get back in the All Blacks, but the decision might have been different if those boys [Barrett and Mo’unga] had still been around.
“I can’t forget Stevie [Perofeta] - he’s been there. But there is an opportunity.”
