The Machine Out Wide - Sitiveni Sivivatu's International Debut

On 10 June 2005, on a chilly night in North Harbour, a shining star in the then Super 12, Sitiveni Sivivatu, was given his first run in the All Black jersey.

The Fijian-born winger’s Super Rugby form that year was such that it was impossible for Graham Henry to leave him out of the national team.

Sivivatu is rightfully remembered as one the greatest runners the game has seen. With blistering pace and a Houdini-like ability evade defenders (not to mention solid handling skills and bullish defence) his effect on a game was truly a pleasure to behold.

Ironically, Sivivatu was selected to face his old countrymen, the Fijians, in his first international cap. There seemed, however, no room for sentimentality in his mind as he appeared ravenous from the first whistle.

It turned out to be something of a dream debut for the then 23 year old flyer as he blitzed his opponents at every opportunity, eventually scoring four tries in a 91-0 mauling of the team in white.