Director General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield has worked tirelessly in New Zealand's COVID-19 response but come the weekend the civil servant will swap the suit and tie for rugby boots and a mouthguard.
While it may have been a while since he's been on the field, the former vice-captain of Scots College First XV is getting amongst it to play against the Parliamentary XV on Saturday.
On Thursday Bloomfield revealed the rugby nickname he's settled on - The Eliminator.
Speaking to reporters he said the Ministry of Health canvassed various options for him before settling on that one.
"Hospital Pass didn't make the grade," he said to laughter.
"Don't Smash Ash was another one, but I've been assured by Minister Henare no one in the Parliamentary team is going to tackle me anyway so I'm happy about that!"
Bloomfield will play alongside Hutt City Mayor Campbell Barry and Greater Wellington Regional Council Councillor Thomas Nash as well as former All Black Stephen Bachop and Jason Eaton.
He's facing a formidable opposition - playing against the Director General will be former All Black Piri Weepu and his brother, former league player, Billy Weepu as well as former Blues and Hurricanes player Ofisa Tonu'u.
"It's been 35 years since I last played rugby so I'm not sure how long I'll last on the field," said Bloomfield on Thursday.
"I'm glad there's a very significant rolling subs arrangement!"
Kickoff will be at 2:30pm on Saturday at the Wainuiomata Rugby Club.
