It's not his mind that worries me, it's his body. He really wanted to play in this World Cup, he didn't even finish all his training sessions haha.
Cruden will learn more playing, than sitting on the bench watching, just my opinion any way.
I'd love Carter to prove me wrong, but he doesn't hurt his legacy going for the big bucks at this stage of his career.
Cruden will only get better, he will get much better playing the big games at international level than sitting on the bench.
I don't think Carter is going to get any better at his stage of his career, age catches up with every one, and Carter has a history of injuries.
You do realize that Carter is contracted to the NZRU till the next World Cup, regardless of how he plays? He has a sebatical clause, but he'll be with the All Blacks anyway.
In my mind, the poor guy deserves another World Cup, just to play in a final if we make it there.