Damian McKenzie: Super Rugby’s Standard-Setter, according to Lienert-Brown
Damian McKenzie’s stellar performances in Super Rugby Pacific continue to draw high praise, this time from teammate Anton Lienert-Brown. McKenzie, 30, has been instrumental in his team’s success, helping them secure the top spot after 12 games. His recent performance against the Crusaders, where the Chiefs rallied from a 19-3 deficit to win 35-19, further solidified his reputation as a game-changer.
Did You Know?
Damian McKenzie can play both fly-half and full-back, showcasing his versatility on the field.
Lienert-Brown,currently sidelined with a broken collarbone,didn’t hesitate to laud mckenzie’s impact.
Lienert-Brown’s Assessment of McKenzie
Speaking on Sport Nation’s Izzy and Millsy show, Lienert-Brown made a bold claim about McKenzie’s standing in the league:
In terms of his rugby level, probably for the last whatever how long, he’s been one of the best players if not the best player in Super Rugby.
Anton Lienert-Brown,sport Nation’s Izzy and Millsy show
Lienert-Brown emphasized that McKenzie’s influence extends beyond the attack.
- Defensive Contributions:
What you don’t see is the work he does in the bunkers on defense,and the amount of ground he covers,so he is a massive influence on our defensive system as well,just through work rate and his voice.
- Overall Impact:
On both sides of the ball, he’s massive for us. When DMac’s out there he has presence and he has the ability to change the game.
- Irreplaceability:
In a sense you can’t replace him, he’s just that influential.
McKenzie’s International Performance
While McKenzie has consistently excelled in Super Rugby, his transition to the international stage with the All Blacks in 2024 presented challenges. Despite a mixed campaign at fly-half under coach Scott Robertson, McKenzie demonstrated his capabilities in a November victory against Ireland. Since then, his performances for the Chiefs in 2025 have been remarkable.
Pro Tip
Watch for McKenzie’s strategic kicks and line breaks, which often set up scoring opportunities for his team.
The Rise of Daniel Rona
Interestingly, Lienert-Brown’s absence has coincided with Daniel Rona stepping up in the No. 13 jersey. Rona’s performances have been noteworthy,even if they haven’t garnered widespread recognition.
Lienert-Brown praised Rona’s versatility and impact:
He’s (Rona) special. I’ve had the privilege of seeing him from when he came into this habitat and build to become the player he is now.
anton Lienert-Brown
He further added:
Whatever position he plays, he plays it very well.Last week [against the Hurricanes], he was the best player on the field for us and really delivered on the big stage.
Anton Lienert-Brown
Lienert-Brown concluded by saying, He certainly doesn’t get the raps he deserves but I’ve got so much respect for him and what he brings to our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
one of the best players if not the best player in Super Rugby.
