Ardie Savea is so good he's been compared to All Black legend Michael Jones. The Wellington star is set to be unleashed on world rugby during the series against Wales.
1) Yes, Ardie Savea is the younger brother of All Black wing Julian Savea. In the old days, forwards were bigger than backs, but not anymore. Loose forward Ardie, aged 22, stands 1.88m and is 100kg. Big brother Julian is considerably bigger - he's 1.92m and a whopping 109kg. Ardie was told to bulk up for top level rugby but is still a touch on the light side. Ironically, Julian's problems of late seem to be the other way inclined.
2) Before we go any further, best to predict that one of New Zealand's great debates could erupt - Ardie Savea v Sam Cane for the All Blacks' No. 7 jersey. Cane is a terrific technician and worker. Savea is a dasher, like no other. Cane is already in the leadership group and seen as a potential All Black captain, which puts a significant hurdle in Savea's way. Savea is a great bench impact option for now although not a lock/loosie candidate. It will be fascinating to see how this potential game breaker with superstar quality fits in.
3) Savea has a history of leadership. He was the Rongotai College head prefect, the first XV captain, and led New Zealand schoolboys and under-20 teams. He made the first XV in Year 10 and notched up 50 games - a rare feat. Rongotai College old boys include the great Ma'a Nonu and a handful of other All Blacks such as brother Julian. But its most famous sporting son is football star Wynton Rufer.
4) Savea was still at school when he got a neck tattoo - his surname surrounded by six stars which represent the members of his family.
