In the leadup to this year’s Rugby World Cup, there’s been plenty of speculation and discussion surrounding the potential makeup of the All Blacks’ squad for the Rugby Championship.
Hurricanes halfback Cam Roigard and Crusaders prop Tamaiti Williams have long been considered potential bolters, and were included in the star-studded 36-player squad on Sunday.
Chiefs duo Samipeni Finau and Emoni Narawa could also debut in the coveted black jersey next month, and Shaun Stevenson was also included in the squad as injury cover.
But the inclusion of Crusaders utility back Dallas McLeod was a surprise to many – including himself.
When the All Blacks’ first squad of2023 was revealed, McLeod “wasn’t expecting” to hear his name called out among the best players in New Zealand.
“I wasn’t expecting it at all, I was watching TV with my girlfriend and flatmate, we thought we should just chuck it on, it was quite surprising and really exciting,” McLeod told Izzy & Kempy for Breakfast on SENZ.
“I didn’t really hear anything else after my name was called out, it was a bit surreal, I was lost for words.
“I had my brother, his partner and a few friends come around, so they brought some champagne, and we had a celebration.
“The first I heard of it was when it was announced.
“He (Ian Foster) gave me a phone call last night and I think that’s the plan to get back into the midfield and grow and learn a bit more there.”
After missing the first two games of the season, McLeod was injected into the 2023 campaign off the bench against the Fijian Drua in round three.
McLeod started the next four matches at inside centre, but has played most of his rugby on either wing for the Crusaders this season.
But All Blacks coach Ian Foster explained that the national selectors believe the 24-year-old’s future lies in the midfield.
“We see Dallas primarily being a midfielder, probably 12. But his versatility, I thought he’s played really well on the wing. It’s probably been a selection by necessity,” Foster said.
“He’s fast and strong and he’s courageous under the ball, a great chaser of the ball. I guess it’s his versatility that’s going to be critical for us.
“We’ve got a chance in a slightly bigger squad to bring him in and see where it goes.”
The All Blacks begin their Rugby Championship campaign next month against Argentina in Mendoza, before returning to New Zealand to face the Springboks at Mt Smart Stadium.
