With the looming return of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to NZ Warriors in 2024, incumbent centre Adam Pompey won't give up his spot without a fight.
After a troubled stint in rugby union, former Warriors captain Tuivasa-Sheck will return to the NRL next year, signing a three-year deal at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart.
But, while the excitement from the club's fans will be palpable, the players competing with Tuivasa-Sheck now have a fight on their hands.
With Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad having a firm grip on the No.1 jersey, both Tuivasa-Sheck himself and coach Andrew Webster have indicated a switch to the centres will take place.
As one of the best players to ever turn out for the Kiwi club, Tuivasa-Sheck certainly isn't returning to the Warriors to play reserve grade.
And with just two starting centre spots available, the pair of Pompey and Rocco Berry are now in a two-horse race to seal a berth for 2024.
That decision won't be an easy one to make, though.
Under the guidance of Andrew Webster, Pompey and Berry are both enjoying breakthrough seasons.
And also considering the likes of veteran Brayden Wiliame and youngster Ali Leiataua also providing options at centre, coach Andrew Webster has a difficult choice to make next season.
For Pompey, though, all he can do is continue to put his best foot forward in 2023, as the Warriors close in on a top four finish.
"[There is] a lot of motivation for me," said Pompey. "I'll just train my arse off and try [to] do it as best as I can.
"[Tuivasa-Sheck's] a good man, a good role model for all the young boys. I'll try to put my best foot forward towards next year.
"Hopefully, something goes right."
Pompey's own form in 2023 should give him confidence to carry on next season as well.
So far this year, the 25-year-old has played every single minute of the Warriors' campaign, scoring four tries and creating eight more.
Over the last two weeks, Pompey has also taken on goal-kicking duties from Shaun Johnson, nursing an injured quad, converting seven tries for his efforts.
That form saw Pompey ink a new two-year contract earlier this year, with the full faith of Webster and the Warriors' coaching staff.
But for the softly spoken centre, there's no secret to his impressive displays this year.
"I haven't really spoken about it. I come in, do my job, and do it as best as I can, really."
Pompey and Berry will start in the centres again on Friday, when the Warriors host St George Illawarra Dragons at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart.
