Ardie Savea says he's relishing his current role within the All Blacks squad, grabbing his chance as the first-choice openside flanker with both hands.
With Sam Cane ruled out until next year with a neck injury, Savea has quickly plugged any gap left by his compatriot's absence - scoring the winning try in the 32-30 win over South Africa in Pretoria, as well as a barnstorming display in last night's 32-20 win over Australia in Yokohama.
Fronting media this afternoon, Savea talked through his upturn in form.
"I'm enjoying it at the moment, just going out there, backing myself and just enjoying footy," Savea said.
"It's been an awesome feeling.
"In the past, (I've) been trying to do a bit too much - obviously on the field, and probably in my head. I've found a way to just simplify things, instinctively just playing what's in front of me.
"I think what I do best, it's been pretty good."
Coach Steve Hansen also took time to praise Savea's recent form, saying that:
"He's taken a lot of confidence, he himself would probably say to you he's not overthinking the game as much as he thought he was."
"He's got his structures right for how to get out there and play well. He's doing it week in, week out.
"He's taken a lot of confidence from being out there long periods of time too, rather than little stints.
"He's going really well."
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