All Blacks legend puts Scott Robertson on alert over Zinzan Brooke-like number eight

Sir John Kirwan, a former All Black, believes that Hoskins Sotutu could finally make the national team.

The 25-year-old initially made an impression in 2020, starring for the Blues during the Covid-affected season.

His performances in Super Rugby and Super Rugby Aotearoa were recognized by New Zealand coaches, and he made his international debut later that year.
However, Sotutu has only made a few appearances in an All Blacks jersey since then, and he did not perform well enough to gain a spot in the Rugby World Cup team.

Impressing Scott Robertson.
With a new World Cup cycle and a new coach, the number eight can impress Scott Robertson and push his claim to a back-row spot.

Kirwan has no reservations about Sotutu’s abilities and compares his skill set to that of the renowned Zinzan Brooke.

“I adore his talent. This is a youngster that can do things that the other gamers cannot. Why was he left out in the past? “Probably his repeated work rate,” he told The Breakdown, which had the new All Blacks manager in attendance.

“And Akira Ioane as well, if he’s ever going to get back to that level again, he has to show something in particular,” he remarked.

Flyhalf role
The 50-year-old also discussed other potential stars this year, with the fly-half position under scrutiny following the departures of Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo’unga.

“For me, it’s Stephen Perofeta. He’s the player who is emerging from the shadow of Beauden Barrett. It is not a negative shadow in any way, shape, or form, but he now controls the team. “It’s up to him to lead his team,” Wilson continued.

“I think you saw last year when he took over at Taranaki and how they handled their campaign.

“If Stephen Perofeta can have a season in which he is in control and stays healthy, he will have a forward pack ahead of him that will provide possibilities.
“When you’ve got guys outside of him like Rieko Ioane, I like what I see.”