Feilding-Rangitikei Herald

Wyness impresses for Feilding yellows

- SHAUN EADE

First five-eighth Ben Wyness’ stock continues to rise as his chases his provincial rugby debut.

The 24-year-old Feilding Yellows playmaker has been dialling up the pressure on representa­tive coaches over the past couple of seasons with his consistent performanc­es.

His latest effort included a couple of strong displays starting at No 10 for the Hurricanes Developmen­t XV.

Not only was it an opportunit­y to show off his wares to the Super Rugby franchise, but an extended audition in front of Turbos backs coach Aaron Good, who was working as the team’s assistant coach.

Wyness was pleased with his effort in matches against the Crusaders and Blues Developmen­t XVs.

‘‘It was good to get some time at that level,’’ he said.

‘‘[I learned] the physicalit­y and the speed at that level and where you have got to be if you want to get [to Super Rugby].’’

Turbos coach Jeremy Cotter said it was a positive to see a player they had been keeping their eyes on get a chance to prove himself.

‘‘It is a good opportunit­y for him to get a taste at that level. It has been great to be able to promote him and the Hurricanes bring him in and have a look,’’ he said.

‘‘He has come back out of that campaign with some feedback and some work ons so it it gives him an idea of what he needs to do to push on and make higher honours.’’

Wyness impressed Cotter last year, but it was not quite enough for him to grab his first provincial game with Otere Black and Sam Malcolm ahead of him in the pecking order.

Wyness got a handful of preseason matches with the squad and was called back at the end of the season to train with them.

With a tidy kicking game already sorted, he said his focus was on improving his attacking game.

‘‘[I am working on] the speed of the catch pass and that sort of stuff. Just being in control of the speed the game.’’

Manawatu have a strong group of first five-eighths in the province with Black and Malcolm already contracted and former Turbo Jade Te Rure back from Scotland, which will make Wyness’ task even tougher

He said playing for Manawatu was his dream, but would not rule out looking elsewhere.

‘‘The first port of call is here, but if the opportunit­y arises.’’

 ?? PHOTO: WARWICK SMITH/FAIRFAX NZ ?? Manawatu Turbos pre-season game againnst Wellington at Johnston Park, Feilding - Ben Wyness (Turbos) with ball..
PHOTO: WARWICK SMITH/FAIRFAX NZ Manawatu Turbos pre-season game againnst Wellington at Johnston Park, Feilding - Ben Wyness (Turbos) with ball..

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