Super Rugby
Slade will keep kicking as Carter looks for quick fix
May 5, 2015
The Crusaders' Dan Carter watches on after a punt down field, Crusaders v Rebels, Christchurch, February 13, 2015
The Crusaders' Dan Carter watches on © Getty Images
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All Blacks veteran Dan Carter says a technical problem has afflicted his goalkicking but he expects a quick fix. Carter hasn't kicked at goal for the Crusaders in their last two games, handing the duties to Colin Slade following a sub-standard return in the loss to the Chiefs on April 17.

The highest points-scorer in Test rugby says an issue with his plant foot prompted him to absolve himself of goalkicking duties until it is resolved. He won't line up the shots in Friday's home game against the Queensland Reds.

"(Slade) is kicking well. It's another week and then a bye week then just continue to get on top of that and keep slotting a few and if I have to kick again then I'm more than capable," Carter told reporters.

Hurricanes 29-23 Crusaders (Australia only)

Carter has kicked 24 from 32 goals this season at a respectable return of 75 per cent while Slade is at 71 per cent (27 from 38). Both players are expected to be included in the All Blacks World Cup squad and will be goalkicking options alongside the other probable first five-eighth option, Beauden Barrett.

Carter, who will leave for French club Racing Metro after the World Cup, has started just two games wearing No.10 this season. His four other starts have been at the less-familiar second five-eighth, outside Slade, something he says he feels comfortable about.

"Doing whatever is best for the team, that's a big motto for us," he said. "Always putting the team first and if it that means we play in 12 I'm only to happy to."

Carter, 33, said the switch had helped improve his physicality.

© AAP

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