Taranaki and Chiefs Angus Ta'avao has answered the call of the All Blacks, coming into the New Zealand squad to cover for injured front rowers Joe Moody and Jeff To’omaga-Allen.
The All Blacks confirmed today that Moody will be sidelined for six weeks after suffering a thumb injury in last Saturday's Bledisloe Cup Test against the Wallabies at Eden Park.
Ta'avao, 28, spoke to 1 NEWS last Thursday before his side's Ranfurly Shield title defence against Manawatū and revealed he believes he's in the best form in his rugby career.
"I definitely feel, probably in my career, I'm playing my best rugby, but you know I'm just excited to be getting these minutes," said Ta'avao.
"And I feel like I'm capable of a lot more, and just loving getting the opportunity to go out there and showcase what I've got."
Taranaki defended the Log o' Wood against Manawatū, defeating the Turbos 41-21 at Yarrow Stadium on Friday night.
All Blacks replacement prop To'omaga-Allen is carrying an injury, which gives way to Ta'avao to be called up into the New Zealand side.
With Moody injured fellow All Blacks prop Karl Tu'inukuafe will have to cover the loose-head position as well.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said Ta’avao has improved drastically at set piece.
"Angus had a big season for the Chiefs during the Super Rugby season, was part of a very good Chiefs pack and has made big strides on the technical aspects of his position," said Hansen.
The All Blacks play their third Rugby Championship match against Argentina next Saturday at Nelson's Trafalgar Park.
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