Rugby: Solid showing boosts Nathan Harris

BIG CHANCE: Bay of Plenty hooker Nathan Harris is making use of extended game time with the Chiefs.PHOTO/GEORGE NOVAK 170214GN78BOP

Bay of Plenty hooker Nathan Harris is a shining example of how far hard work and attitude will get you.

The 22-year-old rake is vying with Rhys Marshall to back-up former Manu Samoan captain Mahonri Schwalger after originally being part of the wider Chiefs training group.

Chiefs assistant coach Wayne Smith says Harris has set high standards with his fitness over the pre-season and that is paying off for the former NZ Under-20 hooker.

"Nathan is outstanding. He wants for nothing in terms of his commitment to the game and his love of it, which you can see in his training," Smith said.

Harris played 45 minutes against the Brumbies last Saturday and although the match result was disappointing, he impressed coaching staff in his core roles and pace around the park.

"I was definitely grateful for the minutes that I got in the weekend. I just wanted to go out there and give it my all," Harris said.

"It was a good opportunity to stamp my authority and get some game-time under my belt.

"I have been under the pump over the last few weeks so it was good to get some ball and a few good throws in the lineout. You have to get the throw and the flight of the ball right, the lift, the jump, the call - everything like that. There are a lot of factors that come into it and we found we got that right (against the Brumbies) which helped get a bit more ball for the backs."

Harris was part of a dominant second half Chiefs scrum that won a number of tightheads off the Brumbies.

"The whole eight was working together as one and we got a few tightheads, which always looks good on the hooker and the front row's resumes. [Props] Jamie Mackintosh and Josh Hohneck played outstandingly."

Harris says the Chiefs are fired up for the Lions on Saturday night after just two wins from their last seven games.

"We are very excited for this weekend and are looking forward to being home back on our Hamilton track. The Lions have come off their bye so we are looking to get up for it, have some excitement around the team, and get that winning feeling back."

The Chiefs team to play the Lions at Waikato Stadium will be named at 4pm today.