Proctor relishes Nonu challenge
Eden Park. Westpac Stadium. Mangatainoka.
Two of those places Matt Proctor expected to see Ma’a Nonu.
The third, on the grounds of the Tui Brewery in pre-season today, was not, but the Hurricanes centre is excited for what should be a genuine test one week before the season begins in earnest after the Blues named former All Black Nonu to start at centre.
‘‘I didn’t really put too much thought into it,’’ Proctor said of the prospect of taking on his former Hurricanes team-mate.
‘‘It will be good to play against him, I’ve never played against him. I’ve played alongside him a few times, but it’s always good to go up against someone of that calibre.
‘‘It’s definitely going to be a taste of what it’s going to be like in the season. It’s good to get a test like that in the pre-season.’’
Proctor has been named to start alongside his younger brother, Billy, in the centres today, something he did a few times during the Wellington Lions’ provincial season.
While it will be another step up for the younger Proctor, his older brother said it was one he was ready for after being aided by the knowledge of his more experienced teammates. ‘‘He’s got plenty of experience around him, guys like Ngani [Laumape] and some of the other boys there in his position that have been teaching him more than what I can about his position. He’s been going well. I’m looking forward to see him playing his game.’’
Vince Aso and Ben Lam will patrol the wings for the Hurricanes, while Fletcher Smith starts at firstfive.
As for the Blues, Nonu is the big draw card in what is a relatively inexperienced lineup, especially in the forwards. He will start outside TJ Faiane, while Stephen Perofeta gets the nod at 10 over Otere Black. Augustine Pulu starts at halfback.
Even though it was pre-season, they remained wary of the Blues, especially after their 43-10 preseason win over the Chiefs last weekend.
‘‘They’ve always got a really good team on paper, and they seem to be putting that into performances now. They’re a strong, physical team. It’s a team that if you don’t turn up mentally prepared for it will be a long day at the office. We’re expecting a big, fast, powerful Blues outfit.’’