Maimuri ready for big task marking legend

Northland rugby lock Vula Maimuri was regarded as the friendly Fijian who might be quite good as an impact player. Now he's the Super 12 professional expected to be the equal of a former All Blacks captain.

Maimuri will get a stiff test of his rugby pedigree when he lines up for Northland in the NPC first division match against Canterbury today.

The Highlanders Super 12 rep is marking Todd Blackadder, the Canterbury captain who was a popular choice as All Blacks captain last season. Ordinarily, that task might put most rugby players a little on edge, but Maimuri isn't one to be fazed.

"That's the best thing about this rugby, playing against these guys," Maimuri said.

"The boys have been preparing well this week, we have had the first game and got the first win. The best part was to win away too."

Northland started the NPC strongly with a 25-20 away win over Taranaki. Canterbury will provide a stern test in their NPC opener, with their reputation for hammering away at defences using repeated phases often the secret of their success.

Northland will hope they can repeat their efforts of being able to defend for long periods, with growing confidence in their ability to compete against the big name players.

Northland's injury problems seem to have dissipated, with five of the six players unable to train on Tuesday on deck on Thursday night.

There is a settled feel to the selection as well, with just one change to the starting line-up. James Arlidge is in at first five-eighth ahead of fellow loan player, Aiden Vince from North Harbour.

While the Northland forwards look menacing, there is genuine pace and ability out wide in Hayden Taylor, Jason Shoemark and the Fijian flyers Fero Lasagavibau and Rupeni Caucaunibuca.

Canterbury's list of big names is extensive, with Blackadder leading a pack containing Scott Robertson at No 8, former league star Brad Thorn at lock and Dave Hewett, Matt Sexton and Greg Feek in the front row.

All Blacks lock Chris Jack will also be sitting on the bench itching for some action.

Aaron Mauger, the New Zealand Colts captain, is at first five-eighth, former All Blacks Daryl Gibson at second five-eighth and Caleb Ralph on the wing.

It's a stellar cast Northland coach Bryce Woodward knows has the ability to pull apart any team in the NPC.

"Nothing has changed since last year, they haven't got any weaknesses so you have got to look at patterns and see if you can expose some holes in those patterns," Woodward said.

"No disrespect to Taranaki, but I think these guys will be a whole level up on what we faced last week."

- NZPA