The Rise of the Hybrid: Is Timoci Tavatavanawai Rugby’s Next Wrecking Ball Flanker?

Following Leicester Faingaʻanuku’s successful move to the forwards, Highlanders star Timoci Tavatavanawai discusses his own potential transition to a "hybrid" flanker role.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 4:18 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Faingaʻanuku Blueprint

The Crusaders' opening match at Te Kaha provided more than just a victory; it served as a successful proof-of-concept for the "hybrid player." Leicester Faingaʻanuku’s man-of-the-match performance at openside flanker has challenged traditional positional boundaries. By moving a player with backline speed and footwork into the rucks, the Crusaders gained a distinct advantage in both the carry and the contest at the breakdown.

This experiment has naturally turned eyes toward Dunedin, where Timoci Tavatavanawai—affectionately known as "Jim the Difference"—has been terrorizing Super Rugby defenses for years. Standing as a "midfielder-wing wrecking ball," Tavatavanawai is already a statistical anomaly, consistently topping the charts for turnovers despite playing in the backline.

Tavatavanawai’s Case for the No. 7 Jersey

Tavatavanawai himself has welcomed the prospect of a move to the forwards. Known for his "brutal" approach to rucks and his relentless work rate at the breakdown, the All Black debutant (class of 2025) believes his skills are perfectly transferable.

"If they give me the opportunity to play seven, I wouldn't say no," Tavatavanawai told RNZ. "I love it [the brutality of rucks]. It’s all about if they gave me the opportunity to have a crack, I'll do it to the best of my ability."