Busy Bardoul awaits main chance

Johan Bardoul is like an old-fashioned forward from a different era.

There are no frills, no short cuts - just guts and hard work, and talking yourself up is a definite no-no.

The Steamers blindside flanker made his debut for the Chiefs in their opening round victory over the Blues in Albany on Saturday night. He was a standout on cover defence, made useful yards with ball in hand and turned over Blues possession on crucial occasions.

But it is typical of Bardoul that he was not nearly as impressed with his performance as his coach Dave Rennie was or Chiefs fans on social media sites.

He admits he went into the match less than 100 per cent fit but was never going to cry off and let his teammates down.

"To be honest I was not that happy with my game," Bardoul said. "I was pretty crook before the game for two days leading into it. I did a couple of good things but I could have done more in regards my work rate and stuff. I just lacked a bit of energy due to the fact I was fairly sick beforehand but I wasn't going to let that get in the way I suppose of getting the opportunity.

"[The coaches] were pretty happy with my performance and I had a lot of good feedback from family and friends as well. But there's plenty to work on though. I probably need to carry the ball a bit more and be a bit more dominant in my ruck cleaning. Those are two things I need to address anyway."

Bardoul started the game beside All Blacks openside flanker Sam Cane for just the second time. In a positive twist, the first occasion was another memorable debut match for Bardoul.

"I started with Sam for the Bay a couple of years ago against Auckland ... he is a good player and I am learning a lot off him."

Bardoul knows his game time will be limited now All Black Liam Messam is available but he is ready for when his next chance comes.

"I'll just take my opportunities when I get them. I'll keep working hard to get another crack at some stage."

-Liam Messam will captain the Chiefs against the Brumbies tomorrow night from blindside flanker, meaning Bardoul will sit this game out. Aaron Cruden starts at first-five with Hosea Gear making his Chiefs debut on the left wing.