Hayman desperate for grand finale

CARL HAYMAN is intent on proving today that old stars don’t just fade away – they are capable of going out with a memorable bang.

Toulon started nine players in their quarter-final win over Wasps who were on the wrong side of 30, but they aim to go one better in Marseille as alterations to their semi-final side mean they start 10 who warrant veteran status.

Former All Black Hayman is third oldest in a team containing three 35-year-olds and one of the elder statesmen who is soon on his way out after announcing he is to retire at the end of the season (although he has left the door open for a shock recall by New Zealand coach Steve Hansen if he is needed for World Cup duty in England later this year). Three in a row European Cup titles then would be the perfect way to sign off.

‘It’s why we train every day, why we do what we do – which is to aim to be the best. That is what we are here to do and that is what we enjoy doing,’ said the grizzled tighthead (right) a year after last April’s quarter-final clash was dubbed a battle of veterans as both Jonny Wilkinson and Brian O’Driscoll were in the final months of their long careers.

‘It would mean a lot for the guys who are leaving as well, to have a chance to win that title again, but first things first.

‘That is Leinster, who are going to be extremely difficult. Semifinals are matches that could go either way.

‘They’re a very strong, very balanced team. Very strong up front with very good finishing capabilities out wide,’ added Hayman, who won 45 caps for New Zealand until deciding to pursue a career in Europe in 2007. ‘We’re not taking anything from the match last year. For us it means nothing. Everything starts again at zero and we have to earn the right to win.’