A New Role, A New Level of Performance
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney has praised the significant impact that Leicester Fainga’anuku has made since transitioning to the forwards. This shift has proven to be a game-changer for both the player and the team.
Penney made an unexpected decision by placing Fainga’anuku, who typically plays on the wing or in midfield, on the openside flank during the Crusaders’ Round 11 Super Rugby Pacific match against the Waratahs. The move was initially seen as an experiment, but it quickly became clear that Fainga’anuku was thriving in his new role.
The 26-year-old had previously shown versatility by occasionally playing in the pack, both at his previous club Toulon and this season with the Crusaders. However, he had always started games in the backline before this latest transition.
Impressive Performances
Fainga’anuku’s performance against the Waratahs was impressive enough to earn him a spot in the starting lineup for the following week’s clash with the Hurricanes, where he delivered another solid display.
His most recent standout performance came in a 36-20 victory over the Blues in Christchurch. Despite not scoring a try, Fainga’anuku showcased a wide range of skills, including deft offloads and chips. He finished the match with two try assists, demonstrating his ability to influence the game from the flank.
Penney expressed his delight at how Fainga’anuku has adapted to his new position. “Hard to change…he can do all things,” Penney said when speaking to reporters about Fainga’anuku’s recent form.
Defensive Contributions
In addition to being a strong ball carrier, Fainga’anuku made a significant defensive contribution against the Blues. He recorded 15 tackles and won two crucial turnovers, highlighting his growing impact on the field.
Penney shared some insights into the coaching process: “I said to him during the week, ‘You’re still a centre, mate,’ because it just felt like he was falling into the role of a loosie purely.” However, Fainga’anuku proved otherwise with his tactical kicking, which led to tries for the team.
A Growing Role
Fainga’anuku is pleased with his performance against the Blues, which helped the Crusaders maintain their fourth-place position in the Super Rugby Pacific standings after 12 matches played.
“I literally think I might play with a number zero or without a number at this stage,” he joked after the match. “Start of the game was obviously nailing my role at seven around set-piece, lineout, scrum, mauls, through phase.”
He added, “Just making sure my feet are moving around the park and trying to find every opportunity I can contribute to the team.”
Staying Grounded
Despite his success in head-to-head clashes with All Blacks openside flankers Du’Plessis Kirifi and Dalton Papali’i in the games against the Hurricanes and Blues, Fainga’anuku remains focused on his own development. He revealed that he is not getting carried away with his performances and is instead concentrating on his preparation and adjustments.
“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 explained. “I’m not really one to try and compare or face off with other opponents. For me, it’s always about me versus me. At the end of the day, it’s the man in the mirror that’s going to define how well you play.”
Looking Ahead
Fainga’anuku’s adaptability and work ethic have not gone unnoticed. His performances have sparked discussions about his potential to become a genuine option for the All Blacks. While he remains focused on his current role, the future looks bright for the versatile forward.
As the Crusaders continue their journey in the Super Rugby Pacific, Fainga’anuku’s contributions will undoubtedly remain a key factor in their success.
