All Blacks Sevens coach Clark Laidlaw is looking forward to honing the skills of one of New Zealand's brightest rugby prospects, youngster Niko Jones.
The son of legendary All Blacks flanker Sir Michael Jones, 17-year old Niko has signed on with the All Blacks Sevens after a season that saw him lead St Peters College to the national first XV schools title earlier this year.
Speaking to 1 NEWS this afternoon, coach Laidlaw spoke about his delight at securing the services of the younger Jones.
"He's an athlete, he's got some great attacking attributes, and he's got the one thing you can't coach, which is speed," Laidlaw began.
"A lot of those attributes will go well in sevens.
"He's got great character, he's a great young man, he obviously comes from great stock.
"We're quite excited about playing a part in his development over the next wee while."
However, with the sky seemingly the limit for young Niko, Laidlaw also conceded that it was more than likely that the young star's services may not be his for very long, backing the barnstorming number eight to emulate his father on the international stage.
"We see part of our job is to produce great young professionals.
"We think we've done a really good job with Etene [Nanai-Seturo] and Selesi [Rayasi] last year, who're off to the Chiefs and Hurricanes.
"Everyone sees Niko's future in Super Rugby and the All Blacks. If we can play a small part in that development, as well as [have] him enjoy himself here, and contribute to the sevens team, then it's a win-win."
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