Sporting achievements: Finest performance by an individual in a team sport

Daniel Carter outwits Lions defender Josh Lewsey in the second test. Herald file picture

We all had an inkling that All Black first-five Daniel Carter was a special talent. But his performance in the second test against the Lions, when he scored 33 points, blew everyone away.

It was so good, Herald on Sunday diarist-cum-laude James McOnie rated him an 11 out of 10.

It was one of those nights for Carter where he acquired a Midas touch. He ran brilliantly, kicked unerringly and made a thousand and one good decisions.

His points tally came from two tries - the second was a brilliant chip and chase - with four conversions and five penalties.

Even the British media, so blinded by the false majesty of Jonny Wilkinson, left these shores sure they had just witnessed a stunning performance by the world's best first-five.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY