Chiefs rising star Cortez Ratima has a big chance to stake a claim for a spot in the All Blacks tomorrow night, when his team visit NSW Waratahs.
The halfback is shaping as a genuine contender for coach Scott Robertson's first squad and may not get a better audition than facing off against Wallabies No.9 Jake Gordon.
At the start of this year, Ratima was the Chiefs' second choice at the position, but his outstanding performances could not be ignored and that's helping build a case for higher honours.
"I managed to get a couple of starts here and there, so that’s been good," he said. "Just can't beat being out on the field."
Aaron Smith's retirement has left the All Blacks No.9 jersey up for grabs for the first time in more than a decade and now the frontrunner to take it - Cam Roigard - is out injured.
"It’s always been a dream of mine," he said. "It’s one of the drivers to why I play rugby."
He's not there yet, with TJ Perenara, Finlay Christie and Folau Fakatava all eyeing a return to black. None have the advantage Ratima does of playing inside Damian McKenzie - the likely All Blacks No.10.
"All I have to do is listen to what he’s calling or the guys outside are calling, and let them work their magic," he said.
Marking Gordon tomorrow night presents Ratima with an opportunity to show he can match up against an international player.
Another standout performance game could be his ticket to the next level.
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