Hundreds of rugby fans have turned up to Christchurch Rugby Club to see one man — All Blacks star Will Jordan.
In fact, the crowd was likely the club's biggest crowd in a decade, since then-NZ captain Richie McCaw played a comeback game for his old club on the Westminster Street field, returning from injury in 2013.
Christchurch-born and bred Jordan was playing for Tasman in their NPC warm-up win over Southland. He played for Christchurch in his formative years, so today's return was fitting, as he made his first appearance since the World Cup final at Paris last November.
He played 60 minutes for the Mako, a successful return, after shoulder surgery nearly six months ago.
"Firstly, it’s great to be back in the Tassie colours," Jordan told 1News. "It's been about 4-5 years since I last played.
"The game was pretty open, so there was more running for the legs than contact for the shoulder, but I’m feeling really good."
The star winger/fullback hadn't played since World Cup final loss. (Source: 1News)
The All Blacks attacking weapon scored one of Tasman’s first-half tries, with a typical gliding run into the backline, outside test midfielder David Havili.
"In particular, it's been frustrating in the All Blacks environment, but not being able to play... you do miss being out there," he said.
The game attracted a 'who's who' of NZ rugby, with former All Blacks first-five Richie Mo’unga, on a break from Japan, watching his old test teammates. National coaches Scott Robertson, Scott Hansen and Tamati Ellison were also on hand to see Jordan back in acton.
All Blacks squad members Noah Hotham and Ethan Blackadder also stretched the legs for Tasman, before heading back into camp in Wellington. Havili saw gametime for Tasman for the second week in a row.
“I definitely didn't play the way I wanted to play during Super Rugby, but I've got something to improve on after 50 minutes today, 40 minutes last week," Havili told 1News. "I’m looking forward to getting into camp and getting stuck in.
"I also love playing for my home union whenever I get the chance."
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Jordan insists he’s definitely ready to go, if called up for next weekend’s opening Rugby Championship test.
Assuming that happens, look out Argentina.
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