Ikitau returns to Auckland for Bledisloe Cup Test

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 03:24 · Archive

Len Ikitau will play inside centre for Australia against New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday, where he lived as a child.

Len Ikitau will start at inside centre for the Wallabies against the All Blacks in Saturday's Bledisloe Cup opener at Eden Park, wearing the No.12 shirt following Hunter Paisami's suspension. He will partner Isaac Henry in the midfield; the pair played together at Brisbane Boys College, where Henry was a playmaker. 'He was my nine and then he was my 10,' Ikitau, 28, said. 'He's grown over the last couple of years ... it's been awesome to see him get his opportunity and make the most it.'

Ikitau has recovered from an ankle injury and will make his first Test appearance at Eden Park. Though born in Australia, he lived in Auckland between ages 3 and 11 and grew up supporting Blues players. Several other Wallabies squad members have New Zealand connections: prop Aidan Ross will become the first player of the professional era to play Test rugby for and against New Zealand, whilst Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Brandon Paenga-Amosa were born in Auckland.

Australia will attempt to become the first team in 54 Tests since 1994 to win at Eden Park. Ikitau said playing at the ground where his younger brother never got to play was special, particularly with family members he discovered he had in New Zealand. 'Just playing the All Blacks ... you stand there, listen to the anthem, watch the haka, you get goosebumps,' he said.

Ikitau returns to Auckland for Bledisloe Cup Test — Image: The West Australian

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How it is being reported

Why Ikitau feels right at home in Auckland returnLen Ikitau will partner Isaac Henry in the Wallabies' midfield for the first time but the pair are well-acquainted thanks to a schoolboy connection.The West Australian · 9 Oct, 02:56
Why Ikitau feels right at home in Auckland returnLen Ikitau will partner Isaac Henry in the Wallabies' midfield for the first time but the pair are well-acquainted thanks to a schoolboy connection.Perth Now · 9 Oct, 02:56

In this story: Len Ikitau · Isaac Henry · All Blacks · Wallabies · Eden Park · Auckland · Australia · New Zealand

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