Anthony Boric's unscheduled sabbatical, where he had surgery on his neck, worked at a "real job" and visited the site of his family's Croatian origins, has inspired him in his return to rugby.
The World Cup-winning All Black is training with a young Blues squad where 62 games make him the fourth most experienced Super Rugby player behind Keven Mealamu, new captain Ali Williams and Piri Weepu. Boric's last game was against the Bulls 10 months ago.
New Blues coach Sir John Kirwan says if Boric proves his fitness, he'll give him a mandate to help lead the team: "I don't want to put any pressure on Anthony; he's a fantastic Blues man who has come through a big injury. He's shown incredible courage and is on target, but I want to make sure when he comes back, he's back to stay. We planned to be without him. We've got five locks [Williams, Liaki Moli, Ronald Raaymakers and Culum Retallick are the others]; we did that on purpose because we weren't sure when AB would be ready."
Boric acknowledges the extra responsibility as a senior player: "I don't really feel 29, but looking around and seeing younger guys makes you feel older. It is important for me to lead by example and bring a bit of my experience to light. First of all, I want to get through a full contact training, make a few tackles and play a game."
Friday's training in the sun at Unitec took its toll. Vats of cold sports drinks were supped after players sweltered through defence training and shuttle runs. However, as thirsts were quenched, a glance to the lower field revealed Boric's 2m frame engaged in a tackle session with flanker Brendon O'Connor. The emphasis was on finding the optimum head placement and body position for Boric's neck. The determination of the 24-test All Black was clear.