News of a trans-Tasman bubble has came as music to Ken Maumalo's ears
"I think it's good for all the boys," says the star NZ Warriors wing. "We can plan for I think it's April and we can work towards that."
Maumalo left the squad to return home early last season for family reasons, but he believes there could be a silver lining.
"I got a decent break, was able to refresh the body again and started pre-season early."
With a host of new faces, coach Nathan Brown will need his senior players to lead from the front.
Someone who wants to take on more responsibility is halfback Chanel Harris Tavita.
"Our focus for this season is trying to take some of the pressure off Roger [Tuivasa-Sheck]," he says. "We feel like with him being the captain, he tries to take on too much load."
Allowing the captain to shine will be key to picking up where they left off last season. Sharing responsibility was something interim coach Todd Payten installed in the side and something the team will continue to do, as they adapt to Brown's style.
"We've got strike all over the park," says lock Jazz Tevaga. "I'm loving the way Browny's attack-focused and Toddy was very defence-focused, so it's getting the balance right."
Heading into 2021, the Warriors have plenty of reason to believe they can find that balance.
