NRL: Leaner, fitter Laumape packs power for Warriors

Ngani Laumape will start at centre tomorrow. Photo / Richard Robinson

Warriors centre-wing Ngani Laumape credits an improved diet and off-field preparation for his outstanding form and rising status as one of the NRL's true danger men.

A constant threat out on the wing in his debut 2013 season, Laumape developed a powerful centre pairing with Konrad Hurrell through the middle part of this year, while positional tweaks and changes over the past three weeks have seen him reinforce his ability on the flank. He started last Sunday's match against Cronulla in the No 3 jersey but quickly found himself shifted out to cover the early departure of rookie winger Tuimoala Lolohea, but has again been named at centre for tomorrow's clash against Newcastle.

"Hopefully I spend the full 80 there but whatever happens I'm ready to step in and do what's best for the team," Laumape said. With speed to burn and a block-like physique, the 21-year-old powerhouse says a more informed approach to eating has helped him slim down and get the most out of his 97kg frame.

"I've just been eating more greens and I've toned up a bit and turned it all to good use. I'm priding myself on that now and thanks to the nutritionist Lee-Anne [Wann], she's helped me get to where I am now and I'm just trying to focus on my off-field preparation. That helps me perform on the field so I had to look at what was happening off the field to play better."

The results have been clear, and despite having just four tries to his name, Laumape has constantly ranked among the Warriors' best go-forward men. Along with winger Manu Vatuvei, his left edge partner this weekend, he is regularly sighted carting the ball up early in the tackle count to help the Warriors work the ball off their own line.

"I'm not the tallest bloke but I've got a big heart and big desire to get the boys going forward. I just want to make the forwards job easier to give us momentum and trying to help the team get into good field position.

"It's definitely good to work with him [Vatuvei] and he's a world-class player. It was a dream of mine to play alongside him and I'm really stoked to go into battle with him again."

With Hurrell expected back from a hamstring injury in the coming weeks, and David Fusitu'a getting another chance to impress on the wing against the Knights, Laumape is intent on making his selection non-negotiable with another top-notch display.

"They'll [Newcastle] definitely be tough over there and with four games to go when it comes down to the business end I want to be a part of the team."