This time last year, Makasini wasn\u2019t even eligible for the NRL. He was too young. But one month after his 18th birthday, he was handed a debut jersey from coach Benji Marshall, <\/p>\n
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Makasini made it count. The powerful outside back ran for 150 metres, recorded four tackle busts and scored a try in his first match at the top level.<\/p>\n
Importantly, he didn\u2019t die wondering. While Makasini strikes a very imposing figure for someone of his age, for an 18-year-old to record 19 hit-ups in his NRL debut, well, it\u2019s pretty impressive. <\/p>\n
\u201cBenji just told me just to do my best and to get that first carry and then all the nerves and stuff will go away,\u201d the modest Makasini told foxsports.com.au when recounting his Round 27 debut against the Titans.<\/p>\n
Makasini is battling for a spot in Marshall\u2019s backline when the Tigers open up their season against the Cowboys in Round 2 at Leichhardt Oval.<\/p>\n
As it stands at the moment, he may have to bide his time given Jeral Skelton and Luke Laulilii are above him in the pecking order. <\/p>\n
His youth and inexperience may play against him and his chances of locking down a spot in first grade but Makasini does have versatility on his side. <\/p>\n
A dual-sport star in both rugby league and rugby union, Makasini has logged plenty of minutes in the centres in both sports. In fact, it\u2019s his preferred position, but a move inside has been put on hold for now.<\/p>\n
Heamasi Makasini after scoring a try on debut.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
\u201cI can play centre and wing. I love both positions,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll probably play wing for a bit. If there are injuries I\u2019ll cover what\u2019s needed but we\u2019ll see what happens.\u201d<\/p>\n
For as long as he can remember, the highly-touted Makasini has fielded interest from league and union. <\/p>\n
He was sought after early in life, signing a Tigers contract at just 14. Since then, he has resisted offers from Japanese rugby and Rugby Australia.<\/p>\n
Handling pressure from such a young age would be tough for any young teen but Makasini has a mature head on his shoulders. <\/p>\n
However it hasn\u2019t been all smooth sailing, with Makasini noting negative reaction from some rugby corners after re-signing with the Tigers until the end of 2028 immediately after representing the Australian under 18s union side.<\/p>\n
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