Mentioned as a potential All Blacks bolter for the upcoming Lions series, Ngani Laumape has enjoyed a meteoric rise into the top tier of New Zealand's elite rugby players.
Currently leading Super Rugby's try scoring tally with 11 tries, Laumape has formed a dynamite partnership with Beauden Barrett inside him as well as Vince Aso at centre.
But it hasn't all been smooth sailing for the explosive runner.
Spending five full professional seasons with the New Zealand Warriors after he was picked up by them when he was 17, Laumape then struck a run of misfortune.
Enduring a torrid run of injuries, Laumape had an indifferent two and half seasons of senior football before he was eventually released to play rugby union in 2015.
Picked up by Manawatu and the Hurricanes, the way his career has turned around wasn't lost on the 24-year-old, particularly when it's come to his off-field issues.
"For me, doing my homework every week and getting my preparation right," said Laumape.
"This year I always go talk to the coaching staff and see what I can do better each week and looking after my off field issues I feel that's been helping out a lot."
As well as being able to maintain his fitness, Laumape credits the Hurricanes set up for fitting back in so seamlessly into rugby.
"When I came here, all the boys have been great and all the boys always compete, that's the one that got me going…
"I look at someone like TJ [Perenara], he's always out there trying to win and that's something I've taken on board, trying to be the best I can be and trying to win every situation I can win."
And he's quick to quell any talk about an All Black berth this year, although he does hope a black shirt comes eventually.
"Not me mate, not me."
"For me personally, I just try to perform the best I can for the Hurricanes, that's my sole focus…
"That is one of my goals but I need to focus on the Hurricanes and whatever happens, will happen."
Newshub.
