MacDonald marvels at rapid rise

Leon MacDonald

Recalled All Blacks rugby fullback Leon MacDonald shakes his head when he realises it was little more than four months ago that he and his young family were sightseeing in Japan.

Taking in the peaceful countryside seemed a world away yesterday as a swarm of international journalists surrounded him, enquiring of his feelings just days out from the first test against the Lions here.

He admitted facing the Lions was never in his thoughts when he returned in March -- a year earlier than originally planned -- from a season with the Yamaha club and linked back with the Super 12 champion Crusaders.

His consistent and impressive form couldn't be denied, winning the No 15 jersey and ending the 26 consecutive All Blacks starts for Mils Muliaina.

``When I made my decision to go to Japan, I thought that would be the end because obviously it (All Blacks) is a pretty tough team to get back into,'' he said.

``That's part of professional rugby. All of a sudden circumstances can change pretty dramatically, through a lack of form or injuries.

``Things have been going really for me lately and the move to Japan's probably been a really good one.''

MacDonald said he wasn't in the physical condition required to play in New Zealand when he decided to leave following the 2003 World Cup.

``It was a risk but at the time I felt it was what I needed, otherwise I wouldn't have too many more years in me if I just kept going the way I was,'' he said, adding that wife Hayley was also seeking a change of scene at the time.

``It was so different to here, which is what we were after, I really enjoyed it.

``It was like going back to the old days of club rugby when you eyed your opposition up from across the field. I got to tour around Japan, which was a great experience.''

MacDonald set his heart on playing for New Zealand Maori when he returned. He did so two weeks ago in their historic victory over the Lions, scoring a try in a performance that saw him propelled back onto the highest stage.

- NZPA