Haven's Makisi eyes World Cup squad slot
Last updated 12:23, Friday, 05 September 2008
Saia Makisi hopes a successful end to the campaign with Whitehaven will pave the way for a place in Tonga’s World Cup squad.
The 26-year-old has played eight times for Tonga, including six Tests, but missed out on selection for their initial 40-strong squad for the World Cup, which kicks off in Australia next month.
However the list includes star players who are likely to instead turn out for Australia or New Zealand, including Willie Mason, an Aussie Test regular and one of the world’s leading forwards.
“I fancy my chances but don’t want to get my hopes up,” said Makisi. “They haven’t finalised the team and it’s pretty much a waiting game.
“It was one of the goals I set myself this year, and it would be good to represent my country again on the big stage. I’ve had good feedback from people in Australia saying they have heard I’ve been going all right here.
“I just need to be more consistent at times. All in all, I think I’ve done okay.”
Makisi made a slow start to his Haven career, after missing out on a pre-season, but has been one of their better performers in the second half of the campaign, whether at centre, stand-off or latterly in the back-row.
“It’s been a good challenge playing the different positions,” he added. “I wouldn’t mind staying in the forwards, but I just need to string a few games together.”
Makisi is out of contract at the end of the season and would relish a return to the Recre.
“I’d love to come back,” he revealed. “We haven’t had any talks yet. This place grows on you, and I understand why my fellow Kiwi boys have enjoyed it here and settled with families.
“It’s up to the club. I’ll see what they decide. I’ve made a lot of new friends and it’s been good to settle in to a new country and learn the culture.”
Meanwhile, centre Rob Jackson has signed a new two-year deal with Haven, despite interest from a couple of rival NL1 clubs.
“I just like the place,” he explained. “They are a good set of lads, and that’s the most important thing.
“Generally at a club, there are a couple of people you don’t get on with, but there’s none of that at Whitehaven. There’s good banter and everyone seems happy with everyone else’s company.”
