Hurricanes Duo Ready to Ignite All Blacks' Northern Tour Against Japan

Love and Proctor

Continuing the work to execute opportunities more consistently throughout their game, the side named has a fresh look with Love, and another Hurricanes team mate, flanker Peter Lakai, looking to make their Test debuts.

Love said his debut will be 'awesome' for him and his family.

"I guess it's been 23 years of working hard to have this moment. It means so much to everyone back home, to myself, and I just want to do the best I can and represent my family, frients and New Zealand as well."

Experiencing the All Blacks' environment earlier in the year exposed him to what preparation for a Test match involves.

"Seeing it first hand and rubbing shoulders with people like Beauden [Barrett], Will [Jordan] and D Mac [Damian McKenzie], and I have spent a lot of time with TJ Perenara in the last few years as well, so [I have been] learning what it takes to be a Test player and hopefully I can use that knowledge and skills and put them to the test."

Love and the younger players wanted to bring their energy and skills to the side.

"But one thing we have stuck to this week is everyone having their role and making sure that whatever we do we bring a lot of energy."


Billy Proctor made his debut in San Diego against Fiji earlier in the season, and since then, he has been on the squad and has been absorbing all the knowledge he can in preparation for his next chance.

That included some games with Wellington in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC.

"That was definitely much needed. There's nothing like a bit of game fitness and I really enjoyed it. I've played a lot of rugby when many of those boys so it was nice to go back there and slot in and get a few games."

He said playing with Hurricanes teammate Cam Roigard would be special after his return from injury.

"It's awesome seeing him back out there and playing some awesome footy. He's only played two games and already had a fair few highlights. It's been a long grind for him.

"I've seen him in the gym a few times and he's put a lot of work into being back there this week and I'm looking forward to him getting out there and doing his thing."

They are also aware of some of their potential opponents.

Proctor said he spent much time in Wellington with Malo Tuitama, and they had been roommates on occasions.

"He's been awesome in both the Japanese games I've seen and he scored a lot of tries. He's got a lot of flair. I'm looking forward to playing him."

Love said Dylan Riley has been playing well. He played against the All Blacks XV that Love played in against Japan last year.

"He's had a great Pacific Cup so we have to respect him."

LATEST NEWS

View all