Crusaders and All Blacks first-five Richie Mo'unga has opened up on his transformation from hot prospect to world class talent, following his side's second straight Super Rugby final win over the Lions last night.
Mo'unga, 24, was the shining light for the Crusaders this season, as the champions proved to be a class above the competition to defend their title.
Speaking to media last night, Mo'unga credited those behind his rapid rise, now in genuine contention to take the All Blacks' number 10 jersey against the Wallabies later this month.
"I'm more level headed, I have a lot of maturity to my game now," he said.
"I'm more of a leader, not only in my words, but in my actions too.
"I've worked hard to get here to this position, it didn't just happen."
Mo'unga also thanked coach Scott Robertson, who has backed him since taking the reigns as Crusaders coach at the start of 2017.
"The faith that Razor (Robertson) has in me to lead this team, and to the other leaders that I have beside me, it all helps."
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