LISTEN: 'Ryan Crotty is the most important member of every backline he plays for'

Midfielder Ryan Crotty has enjoyed a stellar year so far in 2017, and had earned high praise from many quarters.

The Short Ball, Rugby Pass's podcast, is no exception - with host Scotty Stevenson rating Crotty as 'the most important member of every backline he plays for'.

"Last weekend he was just spectacular, in attack he adds that extra voice for Beauden Barrett." added Mils Muliaina.

"He's often labeled as a fix-it man, but he's gone beyond that - busting through some gaps, making big hits and turning over ball at crucial times. He is, to me, the best All Black this year."

Crotty played the entire Super Rugby campaign a second five, then put in a man of the match performance at centre on Saturday night in Sydney against the Wallabies.

He'll again line up alongside Sonny Bill Williams in the All Black midfield tomorrow night for the return match in Dunedin.

Listen to the rest of The Short Ball here:

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