New Zealand
Ryan Crotty simply does 'right things right'
November 5, 2014
Ryan Crotty takes "pride in the fact that I do the right things right" © Getty Images
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Ryan Crotty will never be everyone's cup of tea as a rugby player, having forged a reputation as a reliable and mistake-free midfield back who steps in when the big names are injured or in need of a break. but he's an All Blacks international so he doesn't really care.

Steve Hansen was bombarded with questions about Sonny Bill Williams after New Zealand's free-wheeling win over the United States last week, yet the All Blacks coach insisted on mentioning midfield partner Crotty in his responses, saying the 26-year-old was now an accomplished Test-level player whose decision-making and deeds warranted more kudos.

Canterbury and Crusaders stalwart Crotty, meanwhile, is happy to operate under the radar having barely put a foot wrong in 10 Tests over the past two seasons - eight as a reserve.

"As a player, sometimes people criticise me for not having X-factor," Crotty said. "I take pride in the fact that I do the right things right. If people don't like that, then fair enough, but it's what makes me an All Black. It's cool to be able to say that."

Crotty jelled quickly in Chicago with Williams, who was playing his first Test in more than two years, having had "relationship meetings" in the week leading up to the 74-6 romp.

"We'd been getting tight during the week," Crotty said. "The wee talks and just those connections paid off a wee bit."

© AAP

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