Rugby

Josh Ioane backed for All Blacks' second-five role after Highlanders switch

February 27, 2020 4:04 pm

Josh Ioane is being tipped to take his midfield shift up to Test level by coach Aaron Mauger [Source: TVNZ]

Josh Ioane is being tipped to take his midfield shift up to Test level by coach Aaron Mauger, having moved from first-five into second-five in Super Rugby this year.

Despite making his name as a number 10 last year, earning himself a Test debut for the All Blacks in the process, 24-year-old Ioane has so far played the majority of 2020 at 12, allowing the

Highlanders to accommodate new signing Mitch Hunt.

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While there were naturally some teething issues for the Highlanders, Ioane has begun to find his feet as a second-five, a key player in the 23-22 away victory to the Brumbies earlier this month.

Speaking to media yesterday, coach Mauger backed Ioane to potentially be an option for the All Blacks’ number 12 role – a jersey that he once wore.