ROCK SOLID
ARDIE SAVEA [Hurricanes]
Ardie Savea came close to leaving New Zealand before the World Cup. He’d provisionally indicated to Pau in late 2018 that he would be coming in 2020. And then he changed his mind when Cane was injured and All Blacks opportunity knocked.
Given regular game-time, Savea blossomed and became the player many thought he was destined to become. He was able to compete for the ball at the breakdown, tackle the biggest men and get around the park at what seemed to be 100 miles an hour.
All of his incredible football talent was in display and the All Blacks relished having such a skilled and physical footballer in the No 7 jersey.
There’s a possibility he could play No 8 this year as he’s slipped in there before and looks the part. But it doesn’t really matter what number is on his back – Savea brings everything the All Blacks need in their loose forward mix and at 26, is still developing.
How good he becomes will be up to him. He’s a hard worker and dedicated professional so that side of his growth is not in question.
What is, however, is whether he stays in New Zealand beyond next year. He’s already said he’s tempted by a stint in the NRL and having looked at France once before, he might be tempted to do so again.
