Like Mike said though, Cane seems to be a different type of player who links play more, like a Josh Kronfield or a Martyn Williams rather than a McCaw.

He certainly looked the goods against Ireland. he is young too so he has time on his hands.

What do you think of John Kirwan’s appointment at the Blues? As a Blues fan I have been keeping a keen eye on the whole situation.

I’ve written a post on it on my blog too if you care to read it

http://dumptackle.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/john-kirwan-looks-to-turn-blues.html

I think that was the main issue I had – that it’s relatively early in Pocock’s career to talk about him being the best ever in any particular area. Still, Deans is entitled to his own opinions, as we all are, and I dare say he’s spotted more talent throughout his career than I have from the comfort of my couch!
Looking to the future, I don’t know that New Zealand have another ‘freak’ openside in the pipelines at the moment. Over the last 25 years we’ve been graced with Jones, Kronfeld and McCaw, with some quality fill-ins helping out, but I’m not sure that Cane, or Matt Todd, who seems to have fallen off the radar after being touted as the next big thing, can fill such big boots. Time will tell!

It is rather difficult to compare though as while McCaw has been in the game for over a decade now, Pocock is in essence just starting off.

Perhaps a fairer comparison would be McCaw re 2003/4 vs Pocock now.

As a purely physical specimen, Pocock seems superior but for all round nouse, leadership and influence, McCaw leads the way for me. How many games has McCaw seemed to have won in his own. He seems to perform to his best level on the biggest occasions too.

McCaw has also shown that he can adapt his game with age and still stay at the top. Pocock hasn’t shown that yet.

it will fascinating to see how Pocock’s game progresses over the years.

The new rivalry looks most likely to be Cane vs Pocock, given the selectors earmarking of the young Chief for the 7 position.

NZers better get used to it though. Like it or not, McCaw’s career is now in its twilight and his place at the top will be questioned more and more often. I can’t remember a time when openside flanker has been so strong in world rugby. As you point out, Pocock, Warburton, Brussow, O’Brien – it’s pretty impressive. Australia have some dynamite coming through in Liam Gill and young Hooper.

In the end, it’s hardly unlikely ever will have a career like McCaw though. His is straight out of a Boy’s Own Annual magazine.