Racing
League
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Golf
Sport Nation
Motorsport
Netball
Basketball
Combat Sports
Olympics
Other Sports
Why the McKenzie & Barrett All Blacks partnership is paying off
Sport Nation • October 19th, 2026 4:28 pm
Damian McKenzie and Beauden Barrett | Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
Damian McKenzie says years of playing alongside Beauden Barrett have helped the pair build an understanding that is paying off for the All Blacks.
The pair played a pivotal role in the All Blacks’ 43-21 win over Australia in Sydney on Saturday and completing a clean sweep of the Bledisloe Cup matches.
McKenzie was promoted to No. 10 after injuries ruled Ruben Love and Richie Mo’unga out, while Barrett moved to fullback.
“I think in the past Beaudy and I have played a lot of rugby together, probably the other way around, myself at No. 15 and Beaudy at No. 10,” he told Sport Nation's Millsy & Guy.
“We know each other's games really well and obviously I talk about our forward pack giving us front football, but when you got experienced guys like Baz (Barrett) out there, he helps me out as a driver as well and we sort of play that dual playmaker role, which I think worked really good over the last two Tests.”
Beauden Barrett makes another statement with vintage display in Bledisloe II | The Rugby Run
With much doubt cast over the 35-year-old fullback in recent months and not originally landing a spot in Dave Rennie's inaugural team, McKenzie is delighted to see Barrett back at his prime.
“You only need to look at the last two games Beaudy’s played in, having his experience and just his world-class ability to be able to finish and giving me communication as a No. 10, that makes my job a whole lot easier.
“I was really stoked for Baz in the last two Test matches. He has just shown everyone the footballer he is, he's world-class, so it's great to be back playing with him.”
Listen to the full interview below:
