Otago's Rising Stars Shine on the International Stage

Dunedin is set to host a momentous event in the world of rugby as the All Blacks take on France in what promises to be an electrifying match. With the Forsyth Barr Stadium sold out, local fans are eagerly anticipating a strong performance from their home team. This match is particularly special as it marks the international debut of four Otago-based players, including three who will start the game. The occasion has already sparked excitement in the local community, with schoolchildren and rugby enthusiasts preparing to cheer on these rising stars.

A Community Celebration of Rugby

Before the big match, the All Blacks visited Kings High School, where they engaged with young rugby players in a series of drills and demonstrations. The session was not only a chance for the players to give back to the community but also a reminder of where their rugby journeys began. Du Plessis Kirifi, one of the debutants, reflected on the importance of such moments:

"It's good to see so many smiling boys and they are very skilful as well. It's nice to be back here, giving back to the community. It's been a big week of that, which has been nice. It's been reminding us all where we came from."

Kirifi is among four debutants who will take to the field, with Christian Lio-Willie and Fabian Holland set to start for the All Blacks. Lio-Willie, who plays for the Crusaders in Super Rugby Pacific, is particularly excited about the opportunity:

"When I saw my name on that screen, I just sort of numbed out. Don't even know [who] the second half of the team was. It's pretty awesome."

Lio-Willie's journey to the All Blacks has been a remarkable one. He plays for the Otago team in the NPC and represents Kaikorai in Māori Hill club rugby. His connection to the region runs deep, and he credits his club for much of his development:

"Kaikorai is a huge part of my journey. The coach at the time, Ryan Martin, came up to Auckland when I was at school, Massey High, and he is the one that got me down here. I played all of my club footy for them. I love my footy down here, and the club culture and everything."

A Full Circle Moment

Christian Lio-Willie will be joined on the field by fellow Otago teammate and Highlanders lock Fabian Holland. The pair will share the unique experience of debuting together for the All Blacks in Dunedin, a full circle moment for both. Holland, who moved to New Zealand as a teenager to pursue his rugby dreams, has also found a new home in the region:

"I've still got a lot of friends and loved ones down here that have been supporting me since day one, so I'm just keen to go out there and make them proud."

All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has praised Holland's determination and passion for the game:

"From Zealand to New Zealand, he's come a long way. It's a great story. He's pretty singleminded to make that call to come over and represent another country in the game he loves, and he saw the All Blacks as the ultimate. It's movie sort of stuff, isn't it?"

The Young Fans' Perspective

The excitement is not limited to the players and coaches. Local schoolboys Isaac, Jai, and Mason attended the skills session and are now eagerly awaiting the match. Their confidence in the All Blacks is palpable:

"We'll win easy, yeah easy win, easy win. We're way better than them. I think the score will be 100-0 to the All Blacks."

The enthusiasm of the young fans reflects the optimism of the local community. With the All Blacks facing a French team that includes eight debutants, many believe the home side has a strong chance of victory. The match is not just a sporting event but a celebration of rugby, community, and the talent emerging from Otago.

As the big night approaches, the city of Dunedin is abuzz with anticipation. The debut of these four players marks a new chapter in their rugby journeys and a proud moment for their families, coaches, and the entire region. The stage is set for a memorable evening that will be remembered for years to come.