Cancer survivor Cruden assumes leading role

All Blacks first five Aaron Cruden, a survivor of testicular cancer who was not even born when New Zealand won their only rugby World Cup, has been elevated to the status of National hero.

Cruden had been planning a holiday in Disneyland with his girlfriend but will now fill the boots of the mighty Dan Carter and start at fly-half against France on Sunday in a repeat of 1987 final.

As a child, Cruden watched highlights of New Zealand’s triumph over France at Eden Park and, like all young Kiwi boys, played rugby in the backyard and pretended he was kicking the winning goal or scoring the winning try in a World Cup.

Carter’s serious groin injury while practicing goal kicking during the pool stages stunned a rugby mad nation.

In his absence, Colin Slade stepped up to the number one spot and Cruden, who had been dropped after starting for the first time against Australia in September last year, was called up as cover.

Just 21 years old, Cruden took the field to partner scrumhalf Piri Weepu, who had assumed Carter’s goal kicking role.

And do not be surprised if Cruden becomes the number one first five for All Blacks even after the World cup taking over from Dan Carter.

One News sports presenter, Peter Williams said Cruden will again stamp his mark in the Rugby World cup final against France as he did against the Wallabies in the semis.