Jordie Barrett hailed as world's best 12 after 16-tackle masterclass in All Blacks' 50-19 rout of Wallabies

Jordie Barrett was the standout performer as the All Blacks dismantled the Wallabies 50-19 at Eden Park, with head coach Dave Rennie and captain Codie Taylor both declaring the midfielder the best No.12 in the world after another commanding showing.

Barrett finished the night with a team-high 16 tackles and a game-high three dominant tackles, including a punishing hit on Wallabies flyhalf Ben Donaldson following a high-ball take. He also contributed 12 carries and one line break in attack, though it was his defensive work that drew the loudest praise from those inside the All Blacks camp.

“He’s been phenomenal all year,” Rennie said. “Outstanding in South Africa, and I just think he’s taking this game to another level. It’s not just the skill set, but he’s got a massive engine — his physicality, the defence — I thought he was excellent again tonight.”

Rennie confirmed Barrett picked up a hematoma during the match and there was uncertainty over whether he would continue after half-time, but the 12 was able to run it off before being substituted with around ten minutes remaining.

Captain and hooker Codie Taylor went further, suggesting Barrett’s physical profile would allow him to slot seamlessly into the loose forwards if needed.

“He could probably have a 6, 7, 8 on his back and he wouldn’t look out of place,” Taylor said. “He’s one of those men with his physicality. He hasn’t been saying too much, but his actions on the field are world class.”

“He’s definitely earned the right to be called probably one of the best 12s, if not the best 12 in the world at the moment — not just through his attack and his brutality, but everything that he does. He’s physical, which is all you want to see as a forward from your 12.”

The 50-19 victory extended the All Blacks’ dominance at Eden Park and underlined Barrett’s growing status as one of the most complete midfielders in the global game.