Rugby evolves as the very gifted show off new elements in the sport.
Israel Dagg has brought those elements in his work with his version of the stutter step and then his speed to bewilder cautious defenders.
His sporting ability shone as he grew up in Hawkes Bay andthe only question was whether rugby or cricket would claim Dagg's professional attention.
The winter code won and the progression continued from NZ Schools, under 19s and sevens into the big boys club in 2010. Dagg was chasing Mils Muliaina hard and only the incumbent's experience kept him in front.
When Dagg got his chance he nailed it like the final minute run to score against the Boks in Soweto in 2010 after Shoeless Ma'a Nonu's bust.
Any who felt Dagg might be flawed under the high ball have been silenced by the 25-year-old whose brave aerial exploits are eye-catchingly secure. His fearless timing has been special while his counter-attack punishes kickers who are not on the money with their delivery.
Dagg was reputed to deliver a heavy ball as an aspiring young fast bowler and has shown that speed when he ranges up in the line or pauses behind phase play to count defensive numbers or defenders without his pace.
If he has to kick, Dagg finds impressive metres with his punts and is also adding a neat array of alternate attacking kicks too. He is one of those players who can be quiet during the Super Rugby campaigns but the All Black selectors know they have a jewel when he slips into the black national uniform, someone who should be at his peak at the defence of the Rugby World Cup.
Statistics Date of birth: 6 June 1988 Position: Fullback Matches: 38 Tests: 38 Test debut: 12 June 2010 v Ireland, New Plymouth Province: Hawkes Bay Franchises: Highlanders, Crusaders Test tries: 12 Test points: 65
