New Zealand rugby star Damian McKenzie demonstrated his exceptional skills in a recent match against Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby, despite being completely flattened by an opposing player. Playing as a fly-half for the Chiefs, McKenzie executed a remarkable offload after being hit by Pasifika outside centre Fine Inisi, causing excitement among fans on social media.
Receiving a kick-on near his own 22, McKenzie exhibited impressive speed as he cut across the left side of the field, only to be forcefully tackled by Inisi. The remarkable offload that followed, although it did not ultimately lead to a score, has garnered over half a million views on X and an additional 120,000 on TikTok.
The tackle has sparked a debate among fans, with some questioning its legality. While some claim the tackle was illegal due to the lack of arm wrapping and leading with the shoulder, others have presented screengrabs showing that the tackler did indeed wrap their arms around McKenzie. Despite the controversy, McKenzie’s performance was outstanding, as he successfully converted nine of his 10 attempts during the game.
Following this victory, the Chiefs find themselves four points behind third-placed ACT Brumbies. McKenzie’s impressive performance has only added to the speculation surrounding his potential inclusion in the All Blacks squad for their upcoming summer Tests, where they will face England twice, followed by matches against Fiji and Argentina in the Rugby Championship.
McKenzie’s outstanding display serves as a reminder of the talent and resilience of rugby players, as they continue to capture the hearts of fans with their remarkable skills and dedication to the game. His remarkable offload in the face of adversity has undoubtedly cemented his reputation as a player to watch in the rugby world.
As the Super Rugby season unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate more awe-inspiring moments from their favourite players, showcasing the immense talent and sportsmanship that make rugby a beloved and captivating sport worldwide.