Brad Weber won't let his ego get in the way of doing whatever he can to help the All Blacks in their bid for a third straight Rugby World Cup, resigned to a bit part role in the Japan tournament.
Likely to deputise for Aaron Smith and TJ Perenara, Weber could find playing time hard to come by once the World Cup begins later this month, having just this year worked his way back into the All Blacks' reckoning.
Fronting media in Kashiwa this afternoon, Weber spoke about his willingness to sacrifice his own ambition for the team's good, eager to help wherever he's needed.
"It's all about putting personal ego aside, it's all about helping the team," Weber said.
"Whatever role I'm asked to do, whether it's playing or helping the other guys perform, I'll do it to the best of my ability.
"Like I said, [there's] no point bringing your personal ego here anymore. We've got a team goal to accomplish."
After a season that saw him recalled into the All Blacks for the first time since 2015, Weber says he's ready to repay the faith of the coaches and selectors, initially fearing his Test career was over.
"For a long time I sort of couldn't quite believe I'd got back here [into the All Blacks].
"Twelve months ago, it was so far away, I was so far down the pecking order that it was going to take one hell of an effort.
"I can believe it now. I wanted to be here, that was my main goal. I'd said it publicly a long time ago.
"I can believe it, I'm bloody keen to get stuck in now."
The All Blacks begin their tournament against South Africa in Yokohama on September 21.
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