Despite Springboks hooker Malcolm Marx's status as the best in the game, the All Blacks wouldn't trade him out for Codie Taylor, Ryan Crotty says.
In the absence of Dane Coles, Taylor has stepped up in the black jersey this year, cementing his spot as the first choice in the number two jersey.
Ahead of facing South Africa in Pretoria this week though, Crotty went one step further, saying that Taylor's rapid rise means that the All Blacks would rather see him in their ranks than the supposed world's best.
"I've seen his game go to another level this year, especially for the Crusaders," Crotty began.
"He's a massive reason why we're successful, especially on the defensive side.
"He's a very intelligent hooker, and I'd take him over (Malcolm) Marx any day of the week."
The All Blacks face the Springboks in Pretoria this Sunday morning NZT.
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