Steven Luatua stepping into big shoes at Blues

 When Jerome Kaino departed the Blues there was a sense of shock.

Not only was his decision to leave for Japan premature, in terms of wasting his world-class ability but, at that point, the Blues had no clear replacement.

Then along came Steven Luatua.

While he made his debut during last year's horror campaign, playing at lock and blindside flanker, Luatua's impact was not truly felt until this season. To date he's been the Blues' most consistent and influential forward in 2013.

The 21-year-old speaks with maturity beyond his years and that is reflected in his on field abilities. Some of his rugby lessons can be attributed to Kaino, the man he credits with being his mentor.

"Jerome," Luatua said swiftly. "Last year the way he held himself and the way he played . . . if you want to definition of a forward, that's Jerome Kaino. He gets the team going forward on attack and defence. Hopefully I can fill half his shoes and push on."

Well, Kaino must be proud.

Luatua doesn't yet posses the same stinging defence but his ball-carrying and off-loading skills have featured prominently for the Blues. That was no different in Friday's crucial 29-18 bonus point win over the winless Highlanders. After three straight losses, the context of the result cannot be understated for the Blues. They have now won three, lost three.

"That's pretty much put us right back in the chase," he said.

"Going up against the Hurricanes next week it's nice that we can go out there and just play our game and not chase the game."

The dynamic No 6 is right at home in the Blues' frantic style. Some of the older members of the forward pack must cringe on occasions as, more often than not, their youthful back-three take the risky option of running it out from the 22.

"When we keep the ball in hand it's great to be a part of," Luatua said. "When that back three make some yards they are pretty special. It can get tiring at times but that's how I like to play. It's been really emphasised by the coaches. They want me to go out there and express myself.

"To be honest I didn't expect to play as much as I am now. Even last year I was hoping just to get a cap. To be able to keep playing in the No 6 jersey, I'm cherishing the opportunity."