Leroy Carter to Debut for All Blacks,Citing Sevens Development as Key Factor
WELLINGTON,New Zealand – Leroy Carter,26,has been selected for his first All Blacks appearance in Saturday’s match against South Africa at Wellington‘s Sky Stadium,head coach Scott Robertson announced today. Carter’s inclusion marks a meaningful step in his career, directly linked to his development within the international sevens circuit.
Carter’s journey to the All Blacks is unconventional, transitioning from a trade as a sparky alongside provincial rugby to a professional athlete through the sevens program. He credits the program with providing the focused environment necessary for his growth. “I probably wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for that programme and I get to live out my dream on Saturday night,” Carter said.
Robertson highlighted the need for improvement following the team’s mixed results in recent double-headers, specifically their failure to secure a win against Argentina in Buenos aires after a victory in Cordoba. The coach emphasized the importance of defending home territory, noting the All Blacks’ recent struggles at Sky Stadium, including two losses to South Africa in past encounters.
Prior to earning his All Blacks selection, Carter played for the Bay of Plenty Steamers for three months each year while simultaneously working as an electrician. The sevens environment provided him with a professional contract, allowing him to fully dedicate himself to rugby and focus on crucial aspects of athlete development. “It just made me a professional,” Carter explained. “All the little things – nutrition,planning – all that little stuff has helped me a lot.”
Carter’s experience in high-pressure sevens tournaments,including the Paris Olympics,is expected to aid his transition to the Test arena. However, he acknowledges the unique weight of representing the All Blacks. “Playing for the All Blacks, the nation’s on your shoulders so it’s going to be a new experience altogether. I’m looking forward to it.”
