Damian McKenzie is getting comfortable with his role as first choice fullback for the All Blacks.
During the absence of the resting Ben Smith, along with the injured Israel Dagg and Jordie Barrett, McKenzie has been making the most of his opportunities in the 15 jersey with some standout performances.
The 22-year-old has played six Tests for the All Blacks since making his debut off the bench at José Amalfitani Stadium in Buenos Aires, in Argentina last year and is loving the role of being conceded the current number one fullback.
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"I am starting to feel more comfortable but I guess there are always things to work on and I have had a lot of help from the likes of Ben Smith and Israel Dagg," said McKenzie.
"Those guys have given me lots of guidance around what I should be doing and how I should be preparing."
"It is another great opportunity for myself this weekend and playing Argentina a couple of weeks ago in New Plymouth was a challenge for us so it is exciting to be here and gain another good opportunity against the Pumas."
With no first-five-eighth cover named on the All Blacks bench, there is every indication that McKenzie will finish the game at first-five, to allow David Havili to make his debut off the bench - and allow Beauden Barrett to have a rest.
Meanwhile David Havili will make his Test debut off the bench for the All Blacks this weekend after being named in the squad to face the Pumas.
The Tasman flyer will likely slot into fullback in the second half as McKenzie is be expected to cover Beauden Barrett who is starting at first-five-eighth.
If that does happen, it would be McKenzie's first run at first-five in the All Blacks jersey, something that excites the young prospect.
"I haven't played a lot of rugby there this year so it is exciting, again for another new challenge for me.
"It is about nailing your role at your primary position first and then knowing in the back of your mind that there might be an opportunity to change position later in the game.
"It is different than fullback. It is about controlling and leading the team but we will be see what happens."
With McKenize being the most senior All Blacks in the squad, he has been mentoring Havili during he week.
"I am really excited for him getting his opportunity (to debut)," said McKenzie.
"I was in a similar situation to him about 12 months ago so it is good we can relate to that.
"I said to him just go out there and be confident and play the game you have been playing all year."
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