Sailor in form and at home in new code

SYDNEY - The All Blacks have been warned - Wendell Sailor has got league out of his system.

After leaving a high-profile career with the Brisbane Broncos, Queensland and Australia in a blaze of publicity last year, Sailor struggled to adjust to rugby union.

His form in the 15-man code lifted a notch in this year's Super 12, but it is the international season that has seen the 29-year-old at last produce the brilliant open-field running that marked his former career.

"The pressure that came with it last year, I didn't handle too well. I was playing like a league player," Sailor said.

"I've picked it up a lot better this year. Obviously I love scoring tries and that helps your confidence."

His 100m effort to open the test against Wales was stunning. It was followed by a fine individual effort to crack the English defence, and another in combination with former Kangaroo Mat Rogers against South Africa.

Sailor said tonight's test represented his biggest sporting moment.

"Compared to when I made my debut playing for the Kangaroos in 94, this is probably right up there.

"I'm very nervous, but then again I'm very excited about playing a Bledisloe Cup game.

"There's not too many games bigger than this for Wallaby players, so hopefully I can make an impact."

Sailor said it had been hard for him, centre Rogers and left wing Lote Tuqiri to adjust to rugby.

It must have been even more difficult for former league team-mate Brad Thorn, who had to learn the intricacies of union forward play, as well as change countries.

Sailor could not think of a bigger occasion in his career.

"State of Origin is pretty big, but I would say playing for your country is it."

- NZPA