While there was plenty of hype surrounding the four All Blacks making their test debuts in New Zealand’s 31-27 win over France, halfback Cam Roigard was celebrating a special milestone of his own.
Since making his debut against the Wallabies in July 2023, Roigard had only ever represented the AllBlacks overseas, making Saturday’s win in Dunedin his first on home soil in his 11th test.
He had played in Australia, England, France, Japan, Ireland and Italy before finally getting to wear the black jersey in front of a home crowd.
“I loved it,” said Roigard. “It was a long time coming, playing in New Zealand in front of our fans, friends and family.
“I really enjoyed the build-up. Our fans are great, they’re so passionate and so loud.
“But it’s just different at home, playing in a stadium I’m familiar with, seeing faces in the crowd who’ve been supporting me since day one. It was cool to finally get that one out of the way.”
Saturday’s second test in Wellington will feel even more like a home game for Roigard, because of his allegiance with the Hurricanes Super Rugby Pacific side.
“I’m really looking forward to this weekend as well,” said Roigard. “If I get an opportunity to play in Wellington, that would be special.
“I’ve never played there in the All Black jersey, so I’m just so excited to hopefully get another chance to represent our country.”
His Hurricanes teammate Du’Plessis Kirifi was one of the four players to make their test debut, alongside Fabian Holland, Christian Lio-Willie and Ollie Norris.
Du’Plessis Kirifi celebrates making his All Blacks debut with his family. Photo / Photosport
Roigard said he was delighted to see Kirifi finally get his opportunity.
“I’ve known him since I first came to the Hurricanes in 2021, and I know how hard he works and how passionate he is about playing here,” Roigard said.
“I’m sure there were times when he thought it wasn’t going to happen.
“Credit to him for the resilience he’s shown to keep getting better, as a player and as a leader, especially with the Hurricanes. He’s started to make some really mature decisions with his actions on the field.
“Everything that’s come his way over the past couple of weeks has been the result of nothing but hard work and determination to make this dream come true. I’m really stoked for him.”
The All Blacks will name their side to face France on Thursday and there are expected to be at least a couple of changes, with Sevu Reece already ruled out with concussion, while captain Scott Barrett will miss the remainder of the series with a calf injury.
