Crusaders head coach Rob Penney has been vocal about the surprising yet effective shift of Leicester Fainga'anuku from the backline to the forwards, a move that has sparked new energy in their recent games. Initially known for his agility as a winger or midfielder, Fainga’anuku's transition to the openside flank began during a pivotal Round 11 Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Waratahs, continuing a trend that began at his previous club, Toulon.
Fainga’anuku’s adaptation to his new role was evident as he maintained his starting position against the Hurricanes and dazzled spectators with a standout performance against the Blues in Christchurch, where the Crusaders triumphed 36-20. His role was instrumental, marked by a high work rate in both attack and defense, culminating in two try assists despite not scoring himself.
Coach Penney couldn't conceal his enthusiasm for Fainga’anuku's performance, noting the player's seamless integration into the forward pack.
"Hard to change…he can do all things,"
Penney remarked, highlighting the player's versatile capabilities that have flourished in his new role.Fainga’anuku himself has embraced the challenges of his position switch with a mix of humor and dedication.
"Literally, I think I might play with a number zero or without a number at this stage,"
he joked post-match, emphasizing his commitment to mastering the nuances of his role in set-pieces and open play.Despite his successful outings, Fainga’anuku remains grounded, focusing solely on his personal growth rather than comparisons with his peers. "I wouldn’t say [I’m] comfortable. Obviously, it’s a role that is continually growing, but the awesome thing about it is it’s a challenge I enjoy waking up to," he shared. His philosophy of self-improvement—"It’s always about me versus me"—reflects a maturity that keeps him focused on his own journey rather than the competition.
As the Crusaders continue their campaign in the Super Rugby Pacific, Fainga’anuku's role as a hybrid player is not only a testament to his own adaptability but also to the innovative strategies of coach Penney. This positional experiment, which might have seemed a gamble, is shaping up to be a defining move for both player and team as they adapt and evolve in the dynamic world of rugby.