nib Newcastle Knight Danny Levi is one of four debutants for the New Zealand Kiwis in their 2017 Rugby League World Cup campaign, set to start this weekend.
The 21-year-old will start on the bench when the Kiwis come up against Samoa in Auckland on Saturday night and he can’t wait to suit up for his country.
“Everything has been pretty good… the boys have been very welcoming to me and I’m just excited and can’t wait to get on the field,” explained Levi.
With a monster forward pack, the Samoans will be hoping for an upset win over the hosts but the young hooker is confident in their final preparations for their first hit out.
“There is a lot of belief in the team,” said Levi.
“We have got the team to get the job done but it is going to be tough because there is a lot of quality players in this competition.
“For us debutants, I am sure everyone is prepared to step up and fill those big roles.”
Levi admits time in the New Zealand camp has also been about getting to know his teammates.
“There's been a lot of team bonding and just getting to learn our values and to get to know everyone,” Levi added.
Levi knows he will feel a little nervy as he sets out to make his international debut.
“I just want to make sure that when I do go out there, I do my best,” stated Levi.
“At the moment, I am trying to treat it as another game.
“There is obviously a bit more excitement and a few more nerves but I’ve got to make sure I treat it as another game and keep the same preparation.”
The 21-year-old admits the experience of the prestigious event will be valuable to his overall game for the 2018 NRL season ahead.
“There is a lot of quality players and I might pick up a few things while I’m at camp,” said Levi.
“It is only going to better my game and hopefully I can bring that back to the Knights and improve even more.”
All the details:
Game 1
New Zealand v Samoa
When: Saturday, October 28
Where: Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland
Time: 8:10pm (NZDT) – 6:10pm (AEDT)
Game 2
New Zealand v Scotland
When: Saturday, November 4
Where: Christchurch Stadium, Christchurch
Time: 5pm (NZDT) – 3pm (AEDT)
Game 3
New Zealand v Tonga
When: Saturday, November 11
Where: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton
Time: 5pm (NZDT) – 3pm (AEDT)
