All Blacks forward Luke Romano returned to Test rugby in typical bash and crash fashion last week.
But in his mind, he was treading on eggshells.
The big ball-carrying lock ended three months sidelined by a groin injury with a reserve bench appearance in the win over England last weekend.
After beginning the season as a first-choice selection, he is a strong chance of earning a start in the final Test of the year on Sunday against Ireland in Dublin.
The 27-year-old says his 15-minute cameo at Twickenham will hold him in good stead if he gets a longer crack.
"I was as nervous as I've ever been prior to a game," he said.
"I hadn't played for 15 weeks and you've got that little doubt whether your groin's going to hold up to it.
"If I get an opportunity this week, I'll be a lot better for it."
The Cantabrian started in the first three Tests of the year at home to France before tearing an adductor muscle in New Zealand's Rugby Championship opening Test against Australia in Sydney.
Brodie Retallick has thrived in Romano's absence, forming a world-class locking combination with Sam Whitelock.
Romano says reclaiming his Test spot isn't his priority.
He is more concerned about not disrupting the progress the team have made since the French series.
"You're seeing the pattern of the game that we wanted to play, grow," he said.
"Once I got out there and got involved, it was like putting a glove back on. It felt comfortable."
Share
