Leicester Fainga’anuku, the dynamic Crusaders utility back, is poised to become a key figure for the All Blacks, particularly in the role of a super-sub later this year. With 12 Test caps since his debut against Ireland in 2022, Fainga’anuku, at 26, has shown his versatility by playing predominantly on the left wing and occasionally at outside centre, a position where he recently excelled.
In a stunning display during the Super Rugby Pacific clash where the Crusaders overwhelmed the Fijian Drua 69-26, Fainga’anuku was nothing short of spectacular. He racked up 54 metres, including 15 carries and a clean break, slipped past seven defenders, assisted two tries, and scored one himself. His defensive prowess was equally impressive with 14 tackles. This performance not only highlighted his skills but also sent a potent reminder to All Blacks coach Dave Rennie of his capabilities against high-caliber opposition.
Bryn Hall, the experienced scrum-half currently with Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay, and a former Crusader himself, sees immense value in Fainga’anuku’s ability to cover multiple backline positions. “Look, he could be warranted around starting. I think we’ve got so much depth here at the moment, but I think an impact player for me personally, I think it’s probably the best way for him forward,” Hall remarked on the Aotearoa Rugby Pod.
"I just think with Leicester, tiring bodies in the last 30, 20 minutes, that kind of impact role, especially with what I think Dave Rennie (showed) in the past, in being able to bring on the bench, it’s an important component to have."
James Parsons, former All Blacks hooker, concurs with Hall, emphasizing Fainga’anuku’s strategic deployment. “I’m fully convinced he is an absolute lethal weapon wearing that 23 jersey and coming on with 20, 25 minutes to go,” Parsons shared. He further elaborated on Fainga’anuku’s ability to invigorate the All Blacks’ backfield dynamics, creating pivotal counter-attacking opportunities alongside players like Caleb Clarke.
The consensus around Fainga’anuku’s role suggests a tactical use of his robust skill set to exploit gaps in weary defenses, particularly in the critical closing stages of a match. This approach not only maximizes his impact but also aligns with Rennie’s strategic preferences for player rotation and maintaining pressure through fresh legs on the field.
As the international season approaches, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Fainga’anuku, watching whether this potential tactical switch will unfold into a regular and impactful strategy for the All Blacks. His recent performances certainly make a compelling case for his inclusion in this specialized role.
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Leicester Fainga’anuku, the dynamic Crusaders utility back, is poised to become a key figure for the All Blacks, particularly in the role of a super-sub later this year. With 12 Test caps since his debut against Ireland in 2022, Fainga’anuku, at 26, has shown his versatility by playing predominantly on the left wing and occasionally at outside centre, a position where he recently excelled.
In a stunning display during the Super Rugby Pacific clash where the Crusaders overwhelmed the Fijian Drua 69-26, Fainga’anuku was nothing short of spectacular. He racked up 54 metres, including 15 carries and a clean break, slipped past seven defenders, assisted two tries, and scored one himself. His defensive prowess was equally impressive with 14 tackles. This performance not only highlighted his skills but also sent a potent reminder to All Blacks coach Dave Rennie of his capabilities against high-caliber opposition.
Bryn Hall, the experienced scrum-half currently with Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay, and a former Crusader himself, sees immense value in Fainga’anuku’s ability to cover multiple backline positions. “Look, he could be warranted around starting. I think we’ve got so much depth here at the moment, but I think an impact player for me personally, I think it’s probably the best way for him forward,” Hall remarked on the Aotearoa Rugby Pod.
"I just think with Leicester, tiring bodies in the last 30, 20 minutes, that kind of impact role, especially with what I think Dave Rennie (showed) in the past, in being able to bring on the bench, it’s an important component to have."
James Parsons, former All Blacks hooker, concurs with Hall, emphasizing Fainga’anuku’s strategic deployment. “I’m fully convinced he is an absolute lethal weapon wearing that 23 jersey and coming on with 20, 25 minutes to go,” Parsons shared. He further elaborated on Fainga’anuku’s ability to invigorate the All Blacks’ backfield dynamics, creating pivotal counter-attacking opportunities alongside players like Caleb Clarke.
The consensus around Fainga’anuku’s role suggests a tactical use of his robust skill set to exploit gaps in weary defenses, particularly in the critical closing stages of a match. This approach not only maximizes his impact but also aligns with Rennie’s strategic preferences for player rotation and maintaining pressure through fresh legs on the field.
As the international season approaches, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Fainga’anuku, watching whether this potential tactical switch will unfold into a regular and impactful strategy for the All Blacks. His recent performances certainly make a compelling case for his inclusion in this specialized role.