OPINION: The All Blacks Northern tour is underway; a thrilling 31-22 win against the Barbarians that showcased the unbelievable depth in talent New Zealand rugby has in its warchest.
That talent is prevalent in a tour squad that includes a plethora of fresh faces chomping at the bit to make an impression on Steve Hansen and his merry men.
Hansen has already injected youth and inexperience throughout the 2017 season, and for the most part they've worked out well.
Guys like David Havili, Jordie Barrett, Ngani Laumape and Kane Hames have exceeded expectations in their limited game time.
Before the side left for Europe, TJ Perenara announced he had re-signed with New Zealand Rugby and the Hurricanes until 2021.
And why wouldn't he? His spot in the All Blacks is guaranteed. Along with Aaron Smith, they are the only two halfbacks Steve Hansen and co have deemed worthy of consideration.
In all of Hansen's selections this year Tawera Kerr-Barlow has been included in every squad and will again be with the team for the Northern Tour.
Hansen has openly said this is because they have no genuine third halfback option.
With all of the depth in New Zealand Rugby, depth we continue to go on about as a driving force behind our success, how the hell do we not have a genuine third choice halfback?
With everything we pour into player development and the resources available, there is no one Hansen is prepared to give an opportunity to? This seems crazy.
No one has stood out enough apparently; no one has played well enough for Hansen and co. to say this guy must be picked. Or even, this guy deserves a chance.
It seems the first opportunity will come for Crusaders halfback Mitchell Drummond, who's been picked to play against the All Blacks for the Barbarians.
Drummond will stay on with the squad, and could feature against a French XV in a mid-week match.
Drummond has the goods, and in particular has developed his running game nicely. But it wasn't enough to solidify himself as the first choice Crusaders halfback. He shared that role with Bryn Hall.
But if the 23-year-old can take his chances on this tour, he could find himself as the frontrunner to back up Smith and Perenara.
Augustine Pulu had a solid Super Rugby season with the Blues, but it is very hard for a halfback to standout when your forward pack is going backwards most of the time.
So there's a spot open in the All Blacks squad going forward. Who will jump out and take it?
Super Rugby 2018 is going to be a six month trial for that illusive third nine. But before then, audition one is with Drummond.
He has a real opportunity to make sure Hansen doesn't overlook him.
Ollie Ritchie is a sports reporter for Newshub.
