He may have only been revealed as a new Hurricane yesterday, but loose-forward Du'Plessis Kirifi has had plenty of time to process his upcoming Super Rugby debut season.
Originally from Taranaki, Kirifi was told of his Hurricanes call-up for 2019 before the Mitre 10 Cup season.
"It was actually before the (Mitre 10) season. Got called in to cover some injuries during the 2018 (Super Rugby) season, and obviously I did well enough," said Kirifi.
He followed up the contract offer with a strong showing for Wellington during their Mitre 10 campaign.
"Just knowing my role, and doing it well. Making my tackles, and not mucking up really. Just being someone reliable."
The loose forwards is looking like one of the most competitive areas in the Hurricanes camp, something Kirifi is fully aware of.
Ardie Savea, Vaea Fifita, Gareth Evans, Reed Prinsep, Sam Henwood and fellow recruit Heiden Bedwell-Curtis will also be fighting for the starting spots.
"It's very competitive. Seven of us vying for about three jerseys. But I think the main thing I've got to focus on is turning up and being competitive every day."
It's also like going back to school for New Plymouth-born Kirifi, who will link up with former Francis Douglas Memorial College class-mate Jordie Barrett.
"Used to spend a bit of time at each other's houses and what not (…) Year 13 stats was a bit of a rough one for our teacher I'm sure!"
And there's no holiday on the cards for Kirifi before pre-season gets underway, with the 21-year old instead picking up some extra work.
"Pretty boring doing nothing all day! So I picked up a paint brush, and started painting houses for five weeks."
But he hasn't offered to give the clubhouse a new lick of paint yet.
"Nah! I don't think they'll pay me any extra!"
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