Star flyhalves return to their best

Whilst watching the rugby union internationals between Wales and New Zealand and England and Australia, two world class flyhalves returned to the level that once made them IRB World Player of the Year in 2003 and 2005 respectively. I am of course talking about Jonny Wilkinson and Dan Carter.

Firstly, it was the returning Wilkinson playing in his first autumn international for almost 7 years, who took just a few minutes to stamp his mark on proceedings with a trademark drop goal. He was simply outstanding from then on, and despite England coming out second best against the Aussies, Wilkinson did enough to make the Rugby World sit up and take notice.

He was solid on attack, while his kicking game was effective as always. Whether it was a short kick and chase for himself, the high balls for Banahan, or simply attacking the game line he was a joy to watch for any neutral. What impressed me most was none of the previously mentioned attributes but instead it was his defensive work that stood out. For someone whose had the injuries he's had, to show such trust in his body and making the tackles he made, it was a clear sign that Jonny Wilkinson is back!

Moving along to the other reason for this post, that being none other than Dan Carter. He was the catalyst behind the All Blacks victory and was deservedly named man of the match. He dictated proceedings and despite being jeered for a late high tackle on Martin Roberts, it was clear to everyone that Dan Carter was back to his best.

Kicking over four penalties as well as converting the only try of the match, he fell one short of breaking the All Blacks points record of 967 points held by Andrew Mehrtens. That however is only a matter of time. Despite the All Blacks kicking far more than usual, he was certainly at ease with that tactic and he was the playmaker whenever New Zealand wanted to spread the ball with his slick passing skills. Described by the Observer as "sublime" few could say otherwise of the golden boy of New Zealand rugby.

The fascinating part of everything though, is that these two great flyhalves are likely to go head to head in two weeks time, provided Carter is not banned after being cited for his challenge on Roberts. For the neutral fans out there, like myself, it would be terrific if Carter was available for that clash, so that rugby can once again enjoy the battle of two of the games most gifted pivots going head to head one more time!