“Below par again” – Four All Blacks who flopped against the Bulls

Saturday, 15 August 2026 at 20:41

bySteven Smith

The All Blacks cruised to a comfortable 50-19 victory over the Bulls in their third game of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour – but not everyone impressed at Loftus Versfeld.

Dave Rennie’s side continued their winning start to the tour with another convincing performance, but several players still came in for criticism despite the emphatic scoreline.

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Planet Rugby were particularly harsh on a handful of New Zealand stars, with four players receiving some of their lowest ratings.

Here are the four All Blacks most criticised against the Bulls – and how RUCK rated their performances.

#4. Peter Lakai

Planet Rugby felt Peter Lakai produced a solid rather than spectacular performance, suggesting he did little to make a compelling case for a place in the Test back-row.

They wrote: “A couple of handling errors aside, it was a strong shift” from the Hurricanes forward, who was described as “sharp and accurate” during his 54 minutes.

RUCK rating: 7/10

RUCK were more impressed with the 23-year-old’s contribution, particularly his work away from the spotlight.

“The 23-year-old produced plenty of unseen work, making a significant impact despite spending time out wide. He helped create Moorby’s second try after breaking a tackle and passing inside, while also winning a crucial turnover and forcing a knock-on.”

A needless side-entry penalty was highlighted as his main mistake.

#3. Cortez Ratima

Cortez Ratima also received a mixed assessment after playing the opening 40 minutes.

Planet Rugby praised his support lines, sharp service and willingness to attack around the breakdown, but noted there were “a handful of occasions where he did take the wrong option”.

They also felt he lacked the finishing touch after making a line break.

RUCK rating: 7/10

Charlie Elliott took a more positive view of the scrum-half’s contribution.

“Ratima managed to keep the tempo high in his 40-minute stint and while there were no hugely notable moments from the scrum-half, his general tempo and quality of play was very high.”

RUCK also praised his decision to keep the ball moving through his hands rather than relying heavily on the kicking game.

#2. Anton Lienert-Brown

There was nothing disastrous about Anton Lienert-Brown’s performance, but he was one of the quieter members of a lively New Zealand backline.

Planet Rugby described him as a “glue man” who did what was required without fuss, carrying into contact, distributing well and remaining dependable defensively.

RUCK rating: 7/10

RUCK similarly acknowledged that the experienced centre was overshadowed by those around him.

“Lienert-Brown was arguably the quietest of an otherwise lively backline, despite being heavily involved in attack.”

However, he still made 12 carries and contributed plenty without putting a foot wrong before departing after 64 minutes.

#1. Beauden Barrett

The harshest criticism was reserved for Beauden Barrett, with RugbyPass handing the All Blacks superstar a brutal 5/10.

Barrett played an important role in New Zealand’s opening two tries, with his passing helping create opportunities for Moorby.

However, Planet Rugby felt the veteran’s performance dropped away significantly after the break.

They wrote:

“Barrett’s option-taking in the second half was below par, often handing the ball back to the South African URC side.”

They also highlighted his missed covering tackle for Stravino Jacobs’ try and a wide pass that went to ground and put New Zealand under pressure.

RUCK rating: 7/10

RUCK saw considerably more positives from Barrett’s display.

“Barrett looked back to somewhat close to his best, showcasing his passing range and creating the opening try with a sharp assist.”

There were still mistakes, including the missed tackle for Jacobs’ score, but RUCK felt Barrett’s willingness to kick less and use his passing range helped the All Blacks attack.

It leaves a fascinating debate ahead of the Springboks Tests, with Rennie now having to decide which of his tour performers have done enough to make his strongest XV.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!