Damian de Allende hails Jordie Barrett after Test battles

Damian de Allende has praised All Blacks centre Jordie Barrett after the pair faced each other in three consecutive Tests during the Greatest Rivalry series between South Africa and New Zealand.

Damian de Allende praises Jordie Barrett

De Allende and Barrett have been direct opponents at inside centre throughout the three Tests played in South Africa, with both playing important roles for their respective sides.

The Springbok midfielder has spent most of his international career in the No.12 jersey, while Barrett began his Test career largely at fullback before developing into one of New Zealand’s leading midfield options.

De Allende said Barrett’s range of skills has particularly impressed him during their recent encounters.

“At the moment, the one guy that really stands out for me is Jordie Barrett. His skillset is incredible, he’s got the ability to do basically everything on the field,” De Allende said.

Springbok centre learns from All Blacks rival

The 34-year-old believes competing directly against Barrett has also helped improve his own game.

De Allende said he enjoys studying opposing players during matches and feels he has learned considerably from facing Barrett repeatedly during the series.

“To have played against him the last few weeks… obviously they haven’t announced their team yet, but it’s been a real pleasure facing him.

“I always like to learn a lot on the field, especially playing against my opposition, and I feel that I’ve learned a lot from Jordie Barrett on the field – it’s been incredible to play against him.”

De Allende recalls world-class centre opponents

During his long Springbok career, De Allende has faced some of the leading centres of the modern era.

He highlighted former All Blacks Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Sonny Bill Williams, along with South Africans Frans Steyn, Andre Esterhuizen and Jan Serfontein.

However, De Allende said Barrett currently stands out because of his versatility and all-round ability.

South Africa lead the four-Test series 2-1 ahead of the final meeting in Baltimore.