Auckland’s Ponsonby RFC has produced dozens of All Blacks,but it is decades since one has looked as first-rate as Ioane, the nation’s new wing sensationJust a couple of years ago one could catch Rieko Ioane down at Auckland’s Western Springs stadium most weekends, and playing for Ponsonby RFC. He was still a kid then but one did not need to be much of a judge to pick him out as a prospect. It could be seen in the ease and speed with which he beat bigger,older men. And besides one could not talk to anyone long in the bar without them saying how first-rate he already was and how much better he would net. They have made 46 All Blacks at Ponsonby but it has been a while since they have had one as first-rate as Ioane. Related: For all of Wales’ huffing and puffing the All Blacks refuse to be denied Continue reading...
Source: guardian.co.uk