Chase Tiatia has taken his Super Rugby opportunity with both hands, since making his debut for the Hurricanes at fullback against the Brumbies earlier this month.
He has been in hot form for the Wellington Super Rugby franchise, forcing incumbent Jordie Barrett to switch positions in the side.
The 23-year-old has been in the Hurricanes environment for almost two years and says he was shocked when he discovered he would retain the number 15 jersey against the Highlanders.
"They name the team every week and they got to number 14 [against Highlanders] and they named Jordie Barrett at 14 and I was like, 'Oh s***, who are they playing at fullback?'" said Tiatia.
"Then my named popped up and I was really surprised that they gave me a chance, which is quite good."
The Hurricanes edged the Highlanders 25-22 a fortnight ago in Wellington, in a match that went right down to the wire.
Tiatia says he isn't looking too far ahead in his rugby career and just wants to focus on doing his part for the Hurricanes team.
"Just stay in the team each week and hopefully get named in the team for the Hurricanes each week. And then just taking each week as it comes," Tiatia said.
All Blacks honours is the last thing on Tiatia's mind, he said, explaining that performing for the Hurricanes is the only thing he is worried about right now.
"Nah, hasn't even crossed my mind, that is way too far ahead. Just training hard each week, staying healthy and making sure I can do my best for the Canes.
"I've been given a lot of work-ons, my catch-pass, my kick, my defence – just the works. There is a lot of things to work on."
The Hurricanes have a tough turnaround this week after their 34-28 win over the Stormers, hosting the defending champions the Crusaders in Wellington on Friday night.
The Hurricanes and Crusaders are both on 19 points on the Super Rugby ladder, with the Crusaders in first place in the New Zealand conference based on points differential.
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