After three consecutive Tests against Jordie Barrett in the Greatest Rivalry series, De Allende is unequivocal: Barrett's all-round skillset puts him ahead of every inside centre he's encountered — a list that includes Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, and a clutch of top South African midfielders. More than just a tough opponent, De Allende says Barrett has actively made him better, describing the match-up as a learning experience as much as a physical contest. With Quinn Tupea's injury forcing an All Blacks midfield change heading into the next Test, De Allende isn't expecting any let-up — he sees world-class centres as a given at this level, regardless of who lines up opposite him.
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De Allende singles out Barrett as the toughest centre he's faced
De Allende ranks Jordie Barrett above every centre he's faced in a 12-year Test career — including Nonu, Conrad Smith and SBW — and credits their Greatest Rivalry clashes with sharpening his own game.
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