All Blacks' verdict on returning lock Scott Barrett in Bledisloe win

Returning All Black lock Scott Barrett produced a faultless display at Eden Park on his return, giving the All Blacks engine room more physicality up front.

Barrett’s towering presence was missed against the Springboks, as a bigger body lock who manages the breakdown and set piece. Against the Wallabies it became clear just how much they missed the former captain.

His work rate around the breakdown kept Australia’s poachers in check, Fraser McReight finished with zero turnovers, while his direct carries keep the defensive line honest. His pullback pass to McKenzie sparked the momentum for the second try, with the No.10 providing Wallace Sititi a line break from the play.

Captain Codie Taylor credited Barrett’s presence as lifting the tight five after performance troubles in a number of areas on the South Africa tour.

“He’s a great man, and like I say, we’ve got great stocks when it comes to locks,” captain Taylor said.

“But to have someone like him to step in, you know, someone to lean on as a you know a leader in this in this group. He was just able to go out there this week and focus on his game, but he certainly asked questions when where he thought was needed, which is what we what we want.

“As a tight five, we’ve got a few steps we want to make off the back of the RGR [series against South Africa] and stuff. So to have someone like him back in the room with his physicality, his presence, and his game smarts, is awesome.”

The All Blacks used Josh Lord’s height to control the lineout, targetting him nine times. Barrett finished with the second most takes with just two, highlighting how much reliance they had on Lord.

In the carry game, Barrett finished with a team-high 18 carries and made 12 tackles.

Having Barrett’s presence supporting the tighthead prop certainly firmed up the scrum, with the All Blacks holding firm against a strong Wallaby front row starting group.

Dave Rennie labelled his return to Test rugby as “impressive” and was grateful to have his experience back in the mix.

“Its’ been great to have him in the group because he’s an older head, it felt like we had a bit more experience walk in the door,” Rennie said post-match.

“Demanding. I don’t know if you saw the warm-up but he’s out smacking anyone who had a ball.

“We saw that with the physicality and work ethic on display again tonight. It’s awesome to have him back.”