Dan Carter's form has been mixed since his return to New Zealand
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Dan Carter sets his own high standards, and despite some good performances since his return to Super 14, Rugby Heaven's Richard Knowler says he is still yet to reach the old heights.
"Despite surpassing several notable milestones over the last month – he has become the highest pointscorer in Super history and overtaken Andrew Mehrtens' record as New Zealand's top scorer – more than a few concerned onlookers have been left scratching their chins when assessing Carter's form.
"By his own admission he turned in a rotter against the Hurricanes on Good Friday, yet his performances have been no worse than any other No.10 in New Zealand. None of the efforts from Stephen Donald, Stephen Brett, Mike Delany, Willie Ripia, Aaron Cruden, Colin Slade, Matthew Berquist and Michael Hobbs suggest the All Black coaches are likely to go losing their heads.
"If anything, Carter's form has been as good, or better, than any of those challenging for his All Blacks spot. But because of his reputation, and the magical acts that he has performed over the years, all eyes will always turn to Carter when a big play is needed. Whether it is a short grubber, a crucial tackle, match-winning kick or that trademark run to the line where he somehow uses his powerful hips to shrug off a defender, he is always operating under a spotlight few others have to cope with."
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