News

Kahui - slowest wing in world!

Sunday 05th October 2008

Kahui: Not keen on the 'utility tag'

New Zealand tyro Richard Kahui has stressed he does not see a long-term future for himself on the wing, rating himself the slowest strikeman in the world.

The 23-year-old has played four Tests out wide for the All Blacks this year despite being initially selected by coach Graham Henry as a centre, where he played his first two matches - the second Test against England in June and the Tri-Nations clash against Australia in Sydney in July.

"I certainly don't think [being on the wing] is part of my long-term future. I'm probably the slowest winger in world rugby!" Kahui told New Zealand's Sunday News.

"Obviously my preference is the midfield and that's where I want to make a name for myself.

"If I have to play on the wing or at fullback, I will, but the key for me in the future would be to drop that utility tag and become best centre or second-five [inside centre] in the world."

That Kahui has cemented his place in the number 14 jersey ahead of recognised wingers Anthony Tuitavake and Rudi Wulf has come as a surprise to the Waikato and Chiefs star.

"If anyone would have said to me I was going to be an All Black wing I probably would have laughed at them," he added.

"Obviously I've played in the midfield most of my career but there hasn't been an opportunity for me there. To be given that opportunity somewhere else, which happens to be on the wing, has been awesome for me.

"It's good to see that the coaches see some sort of ability in me and it's good to get out there and try to apply the trade and be an All Black."

Kahui's time on the wing for the All Blacks has also proved a useful experience.

"I don't know if it's this level of coaching or just getting out on the wing but I've started to notice things more and appreciate what the view is like out there," he continued.

"Like what you see and what information can be given. It's been a really good learning experience to be out there."

Kahui returned to action for his provincial side last Thursday after enjoying a lengthy break following the end of the Tri-Nations.

It was his first appearance for Waikato since 2006 and could not have come at a better time for the Mooloos as Kahui's breaks were instrumental in spurring Waikato to a second-half fight back and eventually a last-minute 45-41 victory against Taranaki.

It guaranteed Waikato a place in next weekend's Air New Zealand Cup quarter-finals and ensured Kahui at least one more week of rugby prior to the All Blacks' end-of-season tour to Hong Kong and Britain.