This year has been an amazing year so far for Fijian-born Sevu Reece.

He made his Super Rugby debut for the champions Crusaders in May, first test for the All Blacks in The Rugby Championship in July and will play in his first Bledisloe Cup match test against the Wallabies at Eden Park tomorrow.

And he could play in his first Rugby World Cup next month.

All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen promoted Reece and his fellow Crusader George Bridge on the wings ahead of Ben Smith and Rieko Ioane.

And long-serving Nadi Rugby official Jeff Tamata was the least surprised by the rise of Reece, 22.

“I’m not surprised at all,” Tamata said.

“A decade ago he used to be the Nadi Rugby team water boy and everyone knows him. But more than that – his family were always supportive of Nadi Rugby.

“I’m not surprised how Reece has progressed because he comes from a good rugby and family background. He is ticking the right boxes and he deserves to be where he is now. “

Reece spoke to his father William yesterday, who was surprised that Sevu got the nod to play in Bledisloe Cup II.

“He’s confident and I hope he makes the Rugby World Cup squad.

“I hope Sevu delivers at Eden Park in a game the All Blacks must win. I would love to there on Saturday only if I knew beforehand that he would play.

“But he is confident and at his usual best the last time we spoke.”

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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