Sydney — Amid speculation that Beauden Barrett’s place in the All Blacks side could be under threat, the flyhalf will find himself under increased scrutiny on Saturday when they face Australia in the Rugby Championship opener in Sydney. While Barrett had a below-par season with the Hurricanes, Richie Mo’unga was in superb form for the Crusaders as they won their ninth Super Rugby title. Mo’unga’s performances sparked debate in New Zealand as to whether he should replace Barrett for Saturday’s match (kickoff 12.05pm SA time) but All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has kept faith with the two-times world player of the year. Mo’unga did not even make it to the bench for the Test, which doubles as the opening game of the Bledisloe Cup series. While Hansen has been able to name arguably his strongest side, he was forced to make a late change after replacement prop Ofa Tuungafasi was ruled out with a rib injury and Tim Perry moved on to the bench. Captain Kieran Read and Brodie Retallick return...
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