Roger Tuivasa-Sheck’s impressive switch to rugby should be rewarded immediately with All Blacks selection, according to a Crusaders halfback and a former Test hooker.
The former NRL superstar’s debut Blues season continued apace on Saturday in the 35-6 Super Rugby Pacific quarter final rout of the Highlanders.
The 2018 Dally M Medal winner scored his first Blues try but for all his quick feet it is his work in the less glamorous aspects of inside centre play that has keen observers – and rivals – excited.
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Crusaders No.9 Bryn Hall and former All Blacks rake James Parsons discussed Tuivasa-Sheck’s rapid rise on the Aotearoa Rugby Pod, which can be streamed on Stan Sport.
“I think that match put him in the All Blacks I think if I’m being honest,” Hall said.
“We’ve talked around these kind of games, being able to play against the Australian teams builds his confidence.
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“Then getting a game against the Highlanders and playing a game like that, I think that game puts him in the All Black frame.”
All Blacks coach Ian Foster will name his squad to play Ireland on Monday, following the Blues semi final against the Brumbies at Eden Park on Saturday.
With Anton Lienert-Brown injured, the Test No.12 jersey is open with Tuivasa-Sheck competing against the likes of Quinn Tupaea, David Havili, Jack Goodhue and Jordie Barrett for a start.
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Foster has previously spoken positively about the former Kiwis and Warriors captain’s professionalism and work ethic which has seen him pick up rugby’s intricacies faster than other code-hoppers.
“I think it was Roger’s best round,” Parsons said.
“I just think he was fantastic not only on attack but defensively he seems to be just getting better and better each week.
“In a big match when they were under pressure he really stood up and delivered.
“Roger is just getting better and better. He looks ready for that level of intensity.”
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