RTS still has ‘a bit to learn’

Auckland rugby fans will have to wait at least another week before Roger Tuivasa-Sheck makes his eagerly-awaited debut for the province.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck watches Auckland’s NPC opener against Canterbury from the team box at Eden Park.
Photo: Brett Phibbs/Photosport Ltd 2021

The former Warriors captain has been left out of the Auckland 23 for Saturday’s national provincial championship match against Tasman in Nelson, having watched their opening round game against Canterbury from the stands.

Auckland assistant coach Steven Bates says Tuivasa-Sheck is still getting up to speed, having only left the Warriors late last month.

“People think rugby and rugby league are the same game, [but] they’re vastly, vastly different,” Bates said.

“The similarity is yes they run up and they get tackled, then everything after that is very, very different.

“You’ve got to remember that he hasn’t played since, I think I’m right in saying Otahuhu College, which was probably eight, nine, ten years ago or something like that.

“He’s got a bit to learn, but what we do know and everyone knows is that he’s a phenomenal athlete.”

Bates says Tuivasa-Sheck’s kicking game is one thing he’s got to work on, especially as he’s likely to start his professional rugby career as an outside back.

Bryce Heem makes a tackle on Canterbury winger Manasa Mataele in their opening round NPC match at Eden Park.
Photo: Brett Phibbs/Photosport Ltd 2021

“He has done a little bit of kicking. He’s had a little knee injury, which he is getting over, so he hasn’t done a lot.

“I would imagine the tactical kicking he would be pretty good at. I haven’t seen him let rip too much at the moment.

“Obviously tactical kicking is a big part of rugby…so it’s something playing in the back three he’ll have to work on for sure.”

Experienced Auckland back Bryce Heem says Tuivasa-Sheck is already having an impact on the Auckland team.

“The way he conducts himself on the field is outstanding and he’s got some great skillsets so when he gets out on that field it’s going to be exciting to watch,” Heem said.

“He’s so keen to learn, he’s so keen to do well for him and the team. He’s quite vocal I guess because he’s quite confident, because he is really professional and he really nails his homework.

“For the young guys to see someone come in with only a week under their belt and really nail his homework, know all of his calls…it’s pretty impressive.”