The All Blacks have been urged to splash the cash to sign NRL sensation Reece Walsh after his stunning performance in the Grand Final for Brisbane Broncos last week.
The 23-year-old was outstanding in the victory over Melbourne Storm and is soon set to don the Australia jersey in the upcoming three-Test Ashes series with England.
However, he’s also eligible to represent New Zealand if he were ever swap codes and former rugby league coach Graham Lowe has urged the All Blacks to come calling.
Something special
Walsh’s try scoring showing in the NRL Grand Final was the tip of the iceberg as he caused Melbourne Storm countless problems with ball in hand and also in defence.
Lowe insists he’s “something special” and thinks there’s a chance for New Zealand Rugby to get him over the Tasman, saying he would inject new life into Super Rugby.
“I think he is more than talented. He is the best young player I have ever seen, he’s something special,” Lowe revealed to The Herald Now as he hailed Reece’s qualities.
“We get sick of the Aussies pinching our players… the Warriors won’t be able to get him over here because of the salary cap in the NRL, but I think there is an opportunity for the New Zealand Rugby Union. There Super Rugby crowds are all declining… get this kid over here.
All Blacks: Scott Robertson shows his hand as he opts for continuity in squad for Grand Slam tour
“The going rate for the stars is a million-plus. Pay this guy $5 million a year. Anywhere else in the world, it’s chicken feed. Make a big statement about him.
“The excitement he brings is fantastic. Get him over here. He will bring 10,000 people on his own.”
However, as Lowe mentions, it would take a serious amount of money to lure Walsh to rugby union, especially as his deal with the Broncos runs until the end of 2029.
Recent R360 link
The full-back has also been linked to the proposed R360 competition but that prospect remains up in the air as the rebel tournament has yet to nail down any specifics.
For New Zealand rugby union fans though the prospect of Walsh wearing the famous black shirt would be a dream scenario as they look to return to the top of the tree.
Currently Will Jordan occupies the No.15 jersey but has proved more than effective at the wing and with Walsh’s quality there’s no question he would command a place.