The Blues are preparing to reap the rewards of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck's return to rugby union, after the midfielder's best performance of the season in last week's victory over Western Force.
After a disrupted build-up following his return from NZ Warriors and rugby league, Tuivasa-Sheck could be forgiven for being frustrated at his limited opportunities back in the 15-man code.
What should have been an NPC campaign to ease the 28-year-old into rugby was wiped away as Auckland went into COVID-19 lockdown last year, before his start to this year's Super Rugby Pacific season was hit by a shoulder injury.
But now fit again and appearing more comfortable with the No.12 on his back, Tuivasa-Sheck is beginning to repay the faith shown in him by the Blues.
Playing all 80 minutes of the Blues' 22-18 victory last Friday, Tuivasa-Sheck showcased exactly why the likes of Sir John Kirwan are calling for his inclusion in Ian Foster's All Blacks plans.
On attack, Tuivasa-Sheck made six runs for a team-high 45 metres and created one try-assist, combined with winning two turnovers and making 11 tackles on defence.
And for assistant coach Dan Halangahu, Tuivasa-Sheck's display against the Force is only a sign of what's to come as he re-learns the game he started out in as a schoolboy.
"Roger is just getting better with more time in the saddle," Halangahu said.
"Obviously with a big transition, we're trying to make it really simple for Roger around one or two decisions he's making. When he has that clarity, we know he's a world class athlete.
"We're trying to put him in positions where decisions are simple, and he can execute.
"We're also seeing the defensive side of the game is an area where he's been working really hard. That's where we saw probably his best game as well.
"We know it's not a complete game just yet from Roger, but he's got that magic touch on the edge that can unpick things that other players can't do."
And while Tuivasa-Sheck's move back to rugby union largely revolves around making the cut for the All Blacks' attempt at winning next year's World Cup in France, the Blues are looking beyond 2023.
Regardless of whether he becomes an All Black or not, Halangahu added Tuivasa-Sheck has an important role to play at the Blues as they bid to re-establish themselves as New Zealand's strongest Super Rugby side.
"We're here for long-term success with Roger. It's not about him being the best player on the field at the moment - even though many people think he is.
"It's about where is Roger continuing to grow his game, so that over the next few years he's a huge asset to this team."
Tuivasa-Sheck will again start for the Blues in the No.12 jersey, when they host Melbourne Rebels at Eden Park on Friday.
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