Laulala fast becoming centre of attention

Casey Laulala

Casey Laulala won't buy into it but his much-improved form for the Crusaders has lifted him into contention for All Blacks rugby's most disputed position.

One-test All Black Laulala has been at his best over the last three weeks, helping him stave off veteran Caleb Ralph for the starting centre berth in tomorrow's Super 14 semifinal against the Bulls here.

Another strong all-round performance tomorrow and, if the Crusaders reach the final, again a week later could see his name read out by the national selectors on May 28.

Having missed the latter part of the Crusaders' triumphant Super 12 campaign last year with injury, Laulala, 24, was now thriving on consistent opportunities.

"The whole year it's been pretty tight between Caleb and I but I've felt good in the last few weeks, which is because I'm getting game time, trying things out and getting more confidence," Laulala told NZPA.

He appears a completely different player to the one who struggled with a high error rate and defensive misses for Canterbury through last year's NPC.

At that stage it appeared his selection on the 2004 season-ending tour of Europe -- where he started against Wales at Cardiff and against the Barbarians at Twickenham -- may be his last for the All Blacks.

However, with Tana Umaga retired and Conrad Smith injured, centre has become the most challenging selection for All Blacks coach Graham Henry.

Other options including hot and cold Hurricanes game-breaker Ma'a Nonu, Chiefs fullback/centre Mils Muliaina and Blues livewire Anthony Tuitavake.

In Laulala's favour are his familiarity with several likely first-choice All Blacks backs -- namely Crusaders teammates Daniel Carter, Aaron Mauger, Rico Gear and Leon MacDonald -- and his more rounded game, honed under Crusaders coach Robbie Deans.

He admitted he had been guilty of trying too much in the past.

"I used to throw some stupid offloads but I'm thinking more now about when to offload and when not to," he said.

"My running game is always there but if I get marked up I've got other options.

"Robbie has helped me through, just little ball skills that we do. It's just soft hands, things like that."

His improved concentration and fitness was evident in the final minute last week when it was his break and neat pass from deep that set up the sweeping team try to Tanerau Latimer to complete victory over the ACT Brumbies.

He said All Blacks selection wasn't on his mind.

"Whatever happens will take care of itself. I don't want to set myself up for something like that and then not get picked and be disappointed."

Instead the focus was on beating a Bulls side who have been widely written off.

"We're not too complacent, I think we know how different finals rugby is," he said.

"They're going to be looking for some options to shut down a few players like (first five-eighth) Dan Carter. We have to be smart and really bring the attitude."

- NZPA