Dalton Papali'i aware of the No.7 legacy

November 02, 2018
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Ultimate Rugby

Young flanker Dalton Papali'i is well aware of the responsibility he faces when starting his debut Test for the All Blacks as a flanker sporting the No.7 jersey against Japan in Tokyo on Saturday.

The Iconic jersey is one of the most enduring in the All Blacks history with the likes of Richie McCaw and Michael Jones donning the jersey in the past.

"Looking at that jersey [No.7] I'm filling some big shoes. The best player in the world has played in that position – Richie McCaw. I'm dreaming of the moment just before kick-off and I'm putting it on. I don't know what's going to happen…a lot of emotions, but it's a special feeling," he said.

"I want to try and do my bit for that jersey and go from there."

Papali'i has enjoyed a rapid rise to the All Black jersey having made his Super Rugby debut late last year and entered his full Super Rugby season earlier this year.

"I never thought I would be an All Black this year so everything that comes to me I like to set goals in periods. My goal right now is to try and impact in the All Blacks' jersey and to help this team be successful," he said.

"You dream all your life about being in this position. Every little kid growing up wants to be in this position to hear your name being called out," he said.

Having Blues teammates alongside had made the transition easier, especially around getting into the culture of the All Blacks so quickly.

Where there were seven others who were making debuts it was a special time but they realised there was a standard the All Blacks had and when you were in the environment you prepared as if you expected to play.

"So even though it's a first time, it's a special occasion but when you go out there standards don't change," he said.