Wonderkid: Patelesio Tomkinson
As part of our build up to the U20 World Cup in Manchester, we take a look at some of the players set to make an impact. Next in the series is New Zealand’s Patelesio Tomkinson.
The Baby Blacks have a great history of fielding exceptionally talented midfielders, and Patelesio Tomkinson is no exception.
Growing up in Dunedin, the 19 year old always dreamt of playing for the Highlanders, and was rewarded with a call into the wider training squad this year after his impressive performances in the ITM Cup for Otago.
A skilful and hard working player who has already represented New Zealand Schools, Tomkinson looks set to start in the midfield at the U20 World Cup, although he is also able to fill in on the wing. His place is likely to be outside the precocious talent of Jordie Barrett, and Tomkinson is certainly one of the most dangerous running threats the Baby Blacks possess.
If the Baby Blacks are to continue their success in this competition, Tomkinson will certainly be one of the stand out players. His talent is undoubted, but he faces strong competition in the future All Black midfield, with players like Rieko Ioane, Seta Tamanivalu and Malakai Fekitoa amongst others all pushing for places at the 2019 World Cup.
Filed under:
Wonderkids, New Zealand
Written by: Edward Kerr
Follow: @edwardrkerr · @therugbymag
