'The ultimate competitor': Yaqeen Ahmed tipped to rise to All Blacks challenge

Wynberg Boys’ High director of rugby Nic Groom believes the clash between the Stormers and New Zealand will provide the ultimate acid test for youngster Yaqeen Ahmed.

Ahmed will make his professional debut at DHL Stadium on Friday when the All Blacks get their Rugby Greatest Rivalry Tour underway.

The exciting 20-year-old will form the halfback pairing with Imad Khan, with his inclusion being one of the major talking points ahead of the match.

Ahmed is fresh from helping the Junior Boks win a second consecutive World Rugby Championship title, while he also featured for the SA ‘A’ side against Zimbabwe in June.

There is considerable hype surrounding the former Wynberg pupil, but Groom, who coached him for three years, isn’t surprised by his rapid rise.

“I’m really not surprised by his success; he’s a player that has consistently performed at every training and every game, he’s performed to some of the highest levels I’ve seen in schoolboy rugby, so on the one hand, he deserves to be where he is, and I’m really excited for him. If I had to describe him as a person, he’s the ultimate competitor, and someone with an exceptional work ethic.”

Groom, who also represented the Stormers on 57 occasions between 2011 and 2016, said he isn’t expecting perfection from the young flyhalf.

Instead, he expects him to back himself on the big stage, and stick to what has always worked for him.

“I don’t think anyone expects the perfect performance because this will be the biggest challenge of his career,” he added.

“I know he will continue to compete regardless of the opposition; I’m sure he will play to his strengths.

“It’s a proud moment for him and his family, and everyone at Wynberg.”

Groom, who will leave Wynberg at the end of the current season to pursue a new venture, believes Ahmed has developed into an even more complete player since leaving school.

“There aren’t many people in the game who have the complete skill set.

“Whether it be with or without the ball, and in defence or attack.

“I’ve spoken at length about his kicking. It’s rare that you find backline players who have the ability to be exceptionally good kickers of the ball, carry well and be reliable and combative on defence.

“He’s got exceptional raw ingredients and has grown and matured into playing in a way that makes those around him good.

“He takes responsibility on his shoulders and does what needs to be done at the right time. He’s a big moment player and has worked hard on his craft to get to where he is now.”

Ahmed will come up against the experienced Beauden Barrett, who will make his 146th appearance for the All Blacks.

During the week, Barrett described Ahmed as a very talented prospect, implying the Stormers were in good hands with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu also in the mix.

Ahmed will hope to get his professional career up and running in style against one of the best teams in the world.