best nz five eighths since the 80's

[JJ]

The sad thing is, no matter which way you cut it that's a pretty ordinary list - Benji at his peak was excellent, there has to be ongoing doubt about where Foran sits and the rest are either unproven at the highest levels (the Pauls IMO) or a hodge podge of borderline first graders who had occasional highlights

 

[Manurewa_Marlins]

1. Marshall (World cup winning Captain, Grand final Winner, Golden Boot, Captain of Four Nations Champions)

2. Foran (World cup Winner, Grand final Winner Four Nations Winner)

...

Cayless was the captain. Benji did have a hell of a game though. Even better in the 2010 four nations final.

Foran wasnt there in 2008, debuted in the centres in 09, and missed the four nations that year but was considered the first choice halfback pick.

Id say its Marshall and Foran and then its lightyears til 3rd.

The likes of the Paul boys, Ngamu etc fell victim to poor tactics and preparation a lot of the time compared to their Origin seasoned opponents, as has already been said.