How have you found playing for the All Blacks Sevens team?

I didn’t think I’d ever play sevens for New Zealand. I always thought of it as a backyard game when you are chilling with the boys. So it was definitely a shock.

What have you learnt?

I just need to work on my game, the simple things, and get more game time. I had to take the opportunity while it was there and being involved has been good.

What’s Sir Gordon Tietjens like as a coach?

It’s a bit of both: having a word and putting an arm around your shoulder. He is supportive, and he wants the best for every player. If he gives you criticism you have to take it on the chin and work
on it. He’s a hard man!

What’s next for you?

I haven’t decided whether I want to stay in sevens yet. I’m still working on it with my family. At the end of the day it’s about what’s best for me and will excel my rugby career. If that’s sevens great, but if it’s the 15s route I’ll have to get on that.

RW verdict: His parents were both rugby internationals, so a big future beckons for this 19-year-old.

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