Leicester Fainga'anuku explains loose forward role at Toulon

2023 Rugby World Cup silver-medalist Leicester Fainga’anuku is back on Kiwi soil after two seasons at Top 14 powerhouse Toulon, and he’s returned with some new tricks up his sleeve.

Now back with Tasman Mako – the province where he began his professional journey – Fainga’anuku’s exact role remains unclear with NPC selections looming.”

Departing New Zealand as a winger with some credentials in the midfield, the 25-year-old returns having grown into the No. 13 jersey at Toulon, which is nestled between Marseille and Nice on the Mediterranean coastline.

However, Fainga’anuku didn’t stop there when looking to test his skillset in new positions.

“In France, I was playing more centre, and then managed to get myself into the loose forwards,” the seven-cap All Black bruiser told John Day on DSPN.

“So, I played the first 40-odd at centre and then the last 30 or 20 in the loose forwards. Honestly, I enjoy both areas of the game.”

The Tongan-born talent’s time in the forward pack is sure to take many Kiwi fans by surprise, even if his physical style of play does lend itself to rugby’s dirty work.

“I love it, absolutely love it,” Fainga’anuku continued, explaining his long-standing desire to mix it with the low numbers. “It’s always been something I want to keep in my back pocket, just to be a hybrid player and bring a whole new dynamic to the game. It was really interesting. I really enjoyed it.

“I’ve always tried to have a point of difference in my game, and that’s just another area to add to my CV and my toolbox, and something I’ll keep crafting away at. But look, I’m just always trying to get better, every day, and just trying to find new ways to develop as a player.”

So, where does that leave the Tasman Mako for the upcoming NPC season that kicks off July 31?

“Wherever the coach needs me or wherever I’m required, mate, I’m up for any job. It’s as simple as that.”

The Mako’s squad has been announced, and selection spots are as competitive as ever. The midfield boasts names like All Blacks David Havili and Timoci Tavatavanawai, while the wing stocks include rising Crusaders star Macca Springer and rumoured Chiefs signing, former Moana Pasifika speedster Kyren Taumoefolau.

Should Fainga’anuku look to take his foray into the forwards one step further, he’ll be competing with fellow All Black Ethan Blackadder, Manu Samoa’s Sione Havili Talitui, and All Blacks Sevens ace Tone Ng Shiu.