Super Rugby defenders aren't the only ones struggling to keep up with Beauden Barrett.
The Hurricanes star is pipping the legendary Dan Carter in a Herald readers' poll on who should be the All Blacks No. 10 in this World Cup year.
With Aaron Cruden out for the season, Carter,Barrett, Colin Slade and outside prospect Lima Sopoaga are the candidates to steer the world champions' ship. Carter has improved over the past few weeks, but Barrett was in sensational running form before injury struck.
With just under 2500 votes counted, Barrett has 42% support, with Carter just behind on 38%. Fellow options Slade and Sopoaga are both tracking at 10% popularity.
The All Blacks selectors will get more chances to cast an eye over the close race as the Super Rugby season nears crunch time, with Barrett a 50/50 chance to return against the Highlanders this weekend.
