Damian McKenzie hails Ruben Love's leadership after rapid Test rise

All Blacks fullback Damian McKenzie has praised first-five Ruben Love’s leadership after their 19-point win over Ireland at Eden Park.

Love, who had to leave the field with a knee injury during the second half, has started all three Test matches so far under Dave Rennie.

Both players were competing for the ball inside the All Blacks’ half, with the Kiwi coming down with the ball, but falling awkwardly in the tackle.

The Chiefs fullback, who was named man-of-the-match, took over the first-five duties for the remainder of the match, which was a seamless transition for Rennie’s side.

McKenzie is loving life under new head coach Rennie, having started all three Nations Championship July fixtures in the No.15 jersey.

McKenzie provided the man-of-the-match performance against Ireland, extending the long-standing record with the All Blacks to 53 games unbeaten at Eden Park.

McKenzie, who spoke to media post-match, was quick to give praise to his first-five, explaining the ease in which Love has slotted into the environment.

“The way he’s playing, you’d think he’s played close to 50 Tests, I reckon,” the veteran said.

“Like he’s obviously had an extremely good season with the Hurricanes, and then just brought that confidence into the Test Arena, and yeah, he’s doing an amazing job combining really well with Cam at nine, and he’s leading us around the park.”

McKenzie said that for the number of Tests Love has played, he’s playing well beyond his years.

“Obviously, like I said, for a guy who’s played less than 10 tests, you’d think he’s been there a lot longer.

“So yeah, kudos to Rubes. He’s done a great job of leading the team around, and I guess for me, just try to help out where I can.”

The Chiefs fullback has enjoyed his switch to the backfield, pinpointing the style of rugby as a major factor in his positive mindset.

“Yeah, I mean, use a bit of continuity with the group that’s playing out there, and just backing myself, and I think the way we’re trying to play suits the way I want to play as well.

“And for me, it’s just about getting in positions where I can help the team out, and we’re able to put ourselves, particularly in that first half, in some good areas, we were able to get some bends on the edge, which was great.

“And yeah, for me, it’s just enjoying being back playing Test Rugby. And as I said, the way we’re playing, we’re able to express ourselves and play some free-flowing rugby, which is great.”

“Yeah, boys are doing a really good job there, and particularly our wingers are just getting back and being able to take those balls. And for us at the back, there is just an option to be able to release a pass from them.

“We‘re working really hard on it. Obviously, we know it’s a strength of the Irish team. They kicked really well, so I thought we’re able to fuse that a number of times tonight, which was great.”