Former Collegiate and Steelform Wanganui first-five Stephen Perofeta had a June he will never forget after flying to the other side of the world to win World Rugby Under 20 Championship in the early hours of yesterday, NZ time.
Fresh off making his Super Rugby debut for the Blues and then starting first-five in the Eden Park victory over the British & Irish Lions, Perofeta was rushed to Georgia on Friday to join the Baby Blacks for their final against England.
He linked up with the squad after regular first-five Tiaan Falcon was injured in New Zealand's semifinal win over France.
"Unfortunately, we have had to rule Tiaan out of the final due to concussion which was really disappointing for both him and our whole squad," said coach Craig Philpott on Sunday.
"Luckily we have an awesome replacement in Stephen who played for the Under 20s last year and brings a wealth of experience."