Rugby Championship
Malakai Fekitoa eager to retain All Blacks spot
ESPN Staff
September 29, 2014
Fekitoa hopes he convinced selectors of his value in the squad © Getty Images
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After playing a key role at second five-eighth in New Zealand's win over the Pumas, Malakai Fekitoa is hoping he has convinced selectors of his value in the squad.

Despite being hesitant at first about making the switch from centre to second five-eighth, Fekitoa proved he has all the qualities to prosper in the All Blacks team. The 22-year-old is now looking ahead to the upcoming match against the Springboks where he will look to test himself against one of the world's best, Jean de Villiers.

"It was a massive change from centre," Fekitoa said. "Today wasn't that bad so I really want to keep on going. You learn more every time and you try and fix things you did wrong in the past games."

"I want it so bad. I really want to play in that game so hopefully I'll get a chance. I feel like I can [cover both midfield roles] now and hopefully continue to bring more and get better."

Ryan Crotty is expected to re-join the squad this week after a stint on the sidelines with a facial fracture but All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster believes Fekitoa's good form won't necessarily see Crotty rushed back into the side.

"[Fekitoa] did enough for us to have the conversation," he said. "We haven't thought that far ahead but he did everything he had to do today. Clearly he's an option for us."

The All Blacks will face the Springboks next weekend at Ellis Park in what will be the final match of this season's Rugby Championship.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd

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