Could Springboks soon face All Black hybrids after Crusaders experiment?

The use of hybrid forwards and backs - typified by Bok stars like Kwagga Smith and Andre Esterhuizen - has re-emerged after Fainga'anuku's standout performance at flank for the Crusaders over the weekend, with suggestions the All Blacks could explore a similar approach under head coach Dave Rennie.

Fainga'anuku was unexpectedly named in the back row by Crusaders boss Rob Penney for their Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Waratahs, having previously only filled loose forward roles in brief cameos during his stint at Toulon.

Despite minimal preparation in the position, he delivered a man-of-the-match display in the 35-20 win, scoring a try and handling the breakdown workload effectively.

"I hope it was good enough for one day's prep," Fainga'anuku told Sky Sport NZ. "I definitely enjoyed it out there. The tools are in the toolbox if they're needed."

The performance has prompted renewed comparisons with the Springboks, who have deployed players like Smith and Esterhuizen across both forward and backline roles to add tactical flexibility on the bench.

On The Breakdown, former All Black Jeff Wilson praised Fainga'anuku's display but questioned whether the concept will translate to Test rugby.

"Look, it was an outstanding performance on a short turnaround," Wilson said. "But now is he a viable option at the next level? Whether it works at the next level, I'm not quite convinced of that just yet."

Wilson also drew direct comparisons with the Springboks' model, noting the alignment between hybrid players and South Africa's physical style of play.

"I think it's the style of football they play in South Africa as well. The fact that they are confrontational. Kwagga is a powerful and dynamic player. You talk to anyone, and he's like a brick wall," he said.

"I think his skill set absolutely suits that, and the way the Springboks play. Whether or not the All Blacks start going down that path, does that suit the way Dave Rennie wants to play?"

Former Wallabies centre Morgan Turinui also referenced the Springboks' approach, highlighting how players like Smith operate within their system.

"The skillset of Kwagga Smith is that he is fast, elusive, and he can do things in the backs that he can also do in the forwards," he said. "It gives so much time and ability to share that load around with your players."

Turinui added that while the model works for South Africa, it requires careful selection and role clarity.

"There is could, then there is should. The guys that are in the back row, if you're an outstanding back rower, you stand more of a chance of being involved consistently than being put out into the midfield."