Melbourne starting hooker Anaru Rangi believes the intensity and competition at training amongst the forward pack has been a big factor in his consistent form in 2019.
Rangi has begun his second season with the Rebels in superb fashion, having started in all but one game in 2019.
And Rangi believes those pressuring him for his spot will be a key motivating factor in ensuring his form does not waiver.
“There’s massive competition here with the Rebels. Every week we’re competing, we’re bashing each other and you’re just scratching and clawing to get every minute you can on the weekend,” Rangi said.
“When you’re training at that sort of intensity week in week out, come the game, it’s just like another training run.”
“I’m really happy with the guys who are pushing me just as hard, it really helps my form and the team’s form.”
Aside from his scrum work and technique around the breakdown, a highlight in Rangi’s game this year has been his performance at the lineout, with the hooker making 91 percent of his throws in 2019.
While some may think Rangi is satisfied with his performances so far, the 30-year-old says he wants to keep working hard to further improve his game.
“All I’m really focussed on is the Melbourne Rebels. form and hard work. It’s not an easy job, you’ve got to work hard, so as long as I’m doing that then I’ll have a crack," Rangi said.
“I definitely don’t want to go back to just being a tradie, this is a dream come true (playing professional rugby) and while I’m here, I’m going to hold onto it as long as I can.”
As he looks ahead to Saturday night’s battle with the Sunwolves, Rangi believes the Rebels will have to be aware of the Japanese side’s uncanny ability to produce plays which can often catch unaware teams off guard.
“Their trick plays and organised chaos sticks to mind (as something to look out for),” Rangi said.
“We’re really going to have to be on our toes to make sure we can stamp out those threats.”
