Flyn Yates

Flyn Yates represents part of the next wave of loose forwards coming through at the Blues, a flanker who embodies the relentless, all-action template demanded of the modern back row. Born on 25 May 2000, the New Zealander is in the early stages of his professional career but has already shown the tenacity and physicality that mark out a genuine prospect. Yates pairs a strong carrying game with a high work rate at the breakdown, looking to make ground with ball in hand while also contesting hard for turnovers and securing possession in the support role. His defensive grit and willingness to compete in the contact area have made him a useful contributor to the Blues' forward pack as he learns the demands of Super Rugby Pacific. Like most young loose forwards, his development will centre on consistency and adding nuance to his breakdown and defensive reads, but the raw ingredients are evident. As he accumulates experience within a competitive Auckland environment, Yates has the foundation, energy and competitive instinct to establish himself as a regular member of the franchise's loose-forward stocks.