McCaw assured of being the first Kiwi centurion

Published on September 6, 2011 by Harold Hisona · No Comments Advertisement

Richie McCaw, All Blacks captain, is poised to become the historic Kiwi centurion when he reaches his 100th test cap in the match against Japan on September 16.

Mils Muliana has also been expecting to become a centurion together with McCaw but since Israel Dagg returned from a long injury break, his mortgage on the number 15 jersey is compromised.

“There’s massive competition for spots in that area and everyone is starting to put their hands up,” the 31-year-old admitted.

“You can never be complacent, you have to be at your absolute best, not just on the day but leading up to the games.”

Both Mils and Israel play full back position and it is a contest for both of who will be given an opportunity to show off during New Zealand’s first rugby world cup match against Tonga.

Steve Hansen admitted it would be unfair for both if one couldn’t play considering Dagg played wonderfully in South Africa and Mils has been the best substitute for him. On one thought, Mils would like to achieve a historic record just like McCaw and the coaches know that.

“Israel Dagg obviously played fantastically well in South Africa while Mils has played 98 tests and it’s hard to find too many that weren’t top performances,” Hansen said.

“It’s a pleasing contest we have there and Mils will stand up to that contest as will Israel,” he added.

While it would be just a great honor for Mils to become one of the first Kiwi centurions, he said that his mind is focused on how to make All Blacks stand out from the best rugby teams in the world.

“Whether I am out there as a starting player, I think my goal is to make sure this team is really successful and that may be from sitting on the bench or sitting in the stands,” Muliana said.

New Zealand has been preparing for RWC 2011 more than enough and thus, they are expected to shine more than others. After all, rugby is their national sport and more are expected from them.

Tune in for more RWC 2011 match reports as well as RWC fixtures.