Hoskins Hails Dad

Hoskins Sotutu said it was his dad’s influence that enabled him to make the All Blacks.

Sotutu’s father, Waisake, starred on the wing for Auckland, the Blues and Fiji.

Waisake was the Flying Fijians vice-captain to the 1999 Rugby World Cup in France. He has been the biggest influence on the 22-year-old’s career.

“I owe a lot to that dude,” Sotutu who is originally from Tavea in Bua said of his dad.

“Being a young rugby player you always want to grow up and play for the All Blacks.

“At the beginning of this year I wasn’t even thinking about it. I just wanted to start and play well for the Blues. I’m pretty lucky to have this opportunity.”

Waisake Sotutu.

Instead of tuning in, the 27-year-old had been attending a church service that began at the same time as the announcement.

“It’s an online service and it finished about 11.40,” he told Rugby News.

“Afterwards I checked my phone and saw all these texts and messages.

“I flicked on Sky Sport and sure enough the announcement was on. I totally forgot about it and got the surprise of my life, really.”

All Blacks coach Ian Foster said Hodgman earned his inclusion after maturing his scrummaging work with the Blues this season.

Hodgman had a strong campaign in the front row for the Blues, performing well at the scrum, making plenty of tackles and showing his mobility on attack.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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