5 Players to Replace Dan Carter

New Zealand rugby's other worst kept secret - the other one being about Benji Marshall - has been let out of the bag with long-time stalwart, Dan Carter, set to take his second sabbatical from New Zealand rugby following the end of the 2013 end of year tour to the Northern Hemisphere.

Unlike his last sabbatical in 2009 when Carter went to Perpignan and ripped his leg open, Carter will play no rugby - very similar to McCaw's sabbatical earlier this year - and spend more time with his wife Honor and impending first child.

This is a marvellous opportunity for the likes of Aaron Cruden, Beauden Barrett and other young first fives to step up and see if they can make it hard for Carter to get back into the squad for the Rugby Championship in 2014.

Here's a look at 5 players who will be in line to replace Dan Carter in 2014 -

Aaron Cruden - definitely will be first choice in 2014 barring injury. Aaron Cruden has shown that he is more than capable of taking Dan Carter's place in Super Rugby and the 1st two tests of the June international series against France. He's been through chemo and done his baptism of fire twice in the black jersey  and is an inspiration on the field. Could very well force Carter into early retirement if he does too well.

Beauden Barrett - definitely will be backup in 2014 with a chance to step up and take charge when Cruden is rested. Only question marks on Barrett are his defence which could still be worked on. However, he is still very young and now that he's chosen to stick with the Hurricanes, will develop and push Cruden.

Colin Slade - the forgotten man of New Zealand rugby, Slade is set to return to his hometown of Christchurch to take over as first five of the Crusaders while Carter is on sabbatical. Now at best a third option if he makes it - very much a confidence player who has had horrific luck with injuries but appears to be slowly getting back to his best.

Hayden Parker - rising star at the Highlanders and will probably step up when Slade moves on to Crusaders territory. Excellent goalkicker who would have learnt the hard knocks of top level rugby from the sidelines this season. Very long shot at an All Blacks top next year depending on how the Highlanders go.

Gareth Anscombe - was deployed mainly as a fullback this season but is definitely a first five. A very very long shot at the All Blacks but a capable replacement if he carries his form from the Chiefs this season to next.