From just a rugby player to something extraordinarily special, Sevu Reece continues to make headlines in the world of rugby.

Even his father William Reece continues to be baffled by his sudden shot to fame in only a year.

“It all happens within a year and I’m baffled by his quick rise with the All Blacks,” William said.

“I thought he would be in the wider training group when first selected, but being considered by coach Steve Hansen as one of his first choice wingers continues to be a pleasant surprise. But the good sign for us all is Sevu is a Fijian and we should be all proud of him. He will be playing for family, All Blacks and Fiji.”

Reece has been named on the New Zealand All Blacks wing for the World Cup quarterfinal against Ireland tomorrow night (10.15pm).

Since playing his first game for the Super Rugby champions Crusaders in May, he had made his debut for the All Blacks against Argentina in July. There he played in the Rugby Championship, winning the Bledisloe Cup in August before he was named in the RWC squad.

“We spoke constantly and we were a bit worried when Typhoon Hagibis hit Japan last week, but happy all were safe.”

Due to work commitments, William could not make it to Japan.

But Sevu’s mother will fly out next week to lend support.

Sevu sets pace: Cyril

Sevu’s brother Cyril Reece also finds it hard to believe that Sevu will be playing in the Rugby World Cup quarterfinal against Ireland on Saturday.

“I’m proud of my brother playing in the RWC quarterfinal. Our family can’t believe that he had reached this far. It is a great achievement wearing the black jersey for New Zealand. Our families in the village in Kadavu are eager to watch him play in the Cup quarterfinals,” he said.

Cyril himself will be playing at the second five-eighth for the Fiji Airways Fijian Drua against Canberra Vikings in the Australian National Rugby Championship semifinal on Sunday.

“My brother has set the pace, made me proud as well as my family.”

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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