A must-win Super Rugby clash with the Crusaders on Saturday afternoon may be looming but Highlanders utility back Richard Buckman is already eyeing the team's clash against the Lions on June 13.
Set for a historical meeting under the roof at Forsyth Barr stadium, the utility back said it'll be a highlight of his career.
"If I get the chance to play them, it'll be something pretty special, it happens every 12 years so it should be pretty awesome," Buckman said.
"They're the best players in Europe for a reason and it's a pretty special occasion. Hopefully there's a big crowd in on the Tuesday night and the big sea of red will be pretty daunting but it'll be pretty awesome to play against the best in the world."
It's been a long way around for the 28-year-old, particularly in the last 15 months.
Missing the entire 2016 season with a shoulder injury, Buckman's return coincided with injuries to All Blacks Ben Smith and Lima Sopoaga.
Despite having a way paved back into the side, Buckman said it was anything but smooth sailing, particularly as he looked to rekindle connections within the Highlanders team.
"It's a lot better this year, last year was a disappointing season," Buckman said.
"I probably didn't have too much to do with the boys in my recovery and that so I was back at home for a fair bit. So it's awesome to be in this group of boys again and a few connections need to be made, it's an awesome place to be and looking forward to the rest of the season."
Originally a second five eighth, the affable Buckman said he was just happy to fit in anywhere for the side.
And he's taking nothing for granted.
"Utility is probably what suits me, 12, 13, wing, wherever they chuck me I'm pretty happy to play. We'll see whatever happens on the weekend and hopefully I can just get out on the paddock."
Newshub.
