Player ratings are something that most online publications do for big Tests, but for most players, they are rarely critiqued publicly. But Patrick Tuipulotu had the chance to experience just that a little while back on his return from the All Blacks‘ Autumn Nations Series tour.
The big lock appeared on The Play On Sport Show and was read one New Zealand journalist’s analysis of his ultimate rating for his five-Test tour to end 2024.
Reading the podcast host Marc Peard’s expression, unknowingly, Tuipulotu was bracing for his rating. “Yeah, he’s got some valid points there. That fumble, reliving that moment, that was very hard…After the game, I was relieved we won. But, imagine if we didn’t, I would have been the most hated man in New Zealand.”
“What is it? Have they hit me with a six or something?” He laughed.
Peard explained that the ratings were for the All Blacks Northern Tour specifically and appeared in the New Zealand publication Stuff.
“It says ‘Patrick Tuipulotu. Captained the team against Japan, started the tour finale match against Italy, and used as a sub in the other three games.
“Able to disrupt opposition line-out throws. Had the real impact as a ball carrier against England. Must have been relieved that his fumble when England goal kicker George Ford hit the upright late in the game in London didn’t actually lead to a defeat’. He’s given you a six out of ten.”
A surprise-showered lock greeted that with a big grin on his face.
“Oh, a six?” laughed Tuipulotu. “I reckon that’s a little harsh, to be honest.
The podcasters were very much fuller than that, going on to humorously give the journalist himself a six out of ten for his effort.
“We can act on your behalf in doing the tearing place,” Peard said. “I feel like your ball carrying just keeps getting better and better, and yes, the line-out work, insane. Six out of 10, seems like he’s really kind of gotten into that goalkick.” Co-host Brook Ruscoe went on to offer his own rating, which Peard agreed upon.
“I’m giving you an 8, Patty. No, actually, 8.6. Came on, changed the game, broke through the line like Marc said. Would have been a 10, but you butted the ball on. Outside of that, I thought you were bloody exceptional on that tour. Bloody exceptional,” Peard said.
Peard has been quoted saying, “We can do the talking on your behalf.” The line-out work is enough crazy to make me feel like his ball-carriage just has gone up and up, really. Six out of 10, feels like he is really honing down and that goalkick. Brook Ruscoe also gave a rating, which was endorsed by Peard.
“I’m giving you eight, Patty. Actually, an 8.6. Came on, changed the game, broke through the line like Marc said. would have been the 10, but you butted the ball on. Outside of that, I thought you were bloody exceptional on that tour. Bloody exceptional,” Brook Ruscoe said.
