Milner-Skudder back in action
Nehe Milner-Skudder’s 11-month wait is finally over.
The All Blacks and Hurricanes outside back strapped on the boots and got through 50 minutes unscathed at Auckland’s Alexandra Park yesterday in his first match back since dislocating his shoulder last March.
The Hurricanes, who scored six tries to five, launched a secondhalf comeback and held off desperate attack from the Blues to prevail 38-33 – after being down 21-12 at halftime – following four 25-minute quarters in blazing afternoon sun.
In the wash-up the result is largely meaningless. At this time of year both teams were more pleased to emerge with their squads intact.
That was reflected by no-one more than Milner-Skudder, who while not immediately back to his elusive best showed an urgency to command the first receiver role.
‘‘We play with those two pivots – the first-five and fullback,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s another aspect to my game I want to develop, driving the team.
‘‘It was great to be back on the horse out there playing again. It’s been a while.
‘‘It will probably take a wee bit longer than the first hit-out to get back. I didn’t have too many expectations about today it was just about putting the jersey back on. I was quite happy to come through unscathed.’’
Milner-Skudder could now be asked to fill James Marshall’s absence at fullback for the Hurricanes. Jordie Barrett, who played the second half at fullback, is another option along with former All Black Cory Jane.
His next assignment is the Brisbane Global Tens.
‘‘I know it will be a lot of fun with the extra space so I’m looking forward to it.
‘‘It will probably be a wee bit hotter than it was today so that’ll make it tougher.’’