Richard Loe: Brits are delusional if they think All Blacks are lacking depth

Aaron Smith is No 1 at halfback. Photo / Getty Images

The British media have somehow come to the conclusion there's a lack of depth in the All Blacks.

Really?

I'm not silly enough to say the All Blacks are going to win next year's World Cup but it seems to me we are in a good place 10 months out from the tournament.

The All Blacks have really good depth in every position except halfback and perhaps loose forward.

There's great competition for places and All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said recently some very good players will be left behind for next year's tournament.

Even if they were to suffer injuries to some key players, others will come in and do a good job. That's the All Blacks way. Always has been and, I hope, always will be.

Even if an unproven player was thrust in there, they would do a good job because they would be playing next to better players who lift them.

My biggest concern is at halfback. If Aaron Smith got hurt, we would be in a bit of strife. The All Blacks rely so heavily on him, and his crisp service allows those around him to play at a different level.

I didn't think Tawera Kerr-Barlow was good enough before he got injured and I know TJ Perenara isn't good enough. I only hope a good, young halfback emerges next year and that Andy Ellis is brought back into the frame after returning from Japan because he is Mr Reliable.

What I have liked about the selectors is that they aren't scared of making big calls. You would have made a fortune if you bet 12 months ago Beauden Barrett and Colin Slade would be picked ahead of a fit Dan Carter and Aaron Cruden for a big game, like they were this morning.

Again, that's what the All Blacks are all about - putting out the best team regardless of reputations.

There's still plenty of time for players outside the squad to put pressure on the selectors before they pick their World Cup squad. They might not push their way through it but you want them knocking on the door to keep everyone honest.

It's imperative our key All Blacks play well in Super Rugby. They will play a lot of rugby next year but regular game time is critical to make sure they're in good form.

I'm obviously writing before this morning's game against Wales but, irrespective of the result, it has been another good year. A number of people have said to me the All Blacks have had too many close ones but the key point is they won and it also doesn't give enough kudos to the rest of the world.

A number of countries have huge budgets to work with and are making good progress and to continually remain ahead of the pack is an impressive achievement.