Saula Ma'u

Breakdown contests are where Saula Ma'u does much of his best work. A mobile, hard-hitting flanker for the Highlanders, he brings genuine physicality and appetite for the collision to the loose forward trio. Born on 29 April 2000, Ma'u is a developing back-rower whose relentless defensive work rate and ability to contest possession make him a useful asset in a competition as physically demanding as Super Rugby. His role centres on providing defensive starch — making the dominant tackles, slowing opposition ball and competing for turnovers when the chance arises. There is energy and intent in everything he does, the sort of forward who lifts those around him through sheer effort. At this stage of his career the focus is on sharpening the detail of his game and earning a consistent run in the matchday squad, but the physical platform is clearly there. For the Highlanders he offers a glimpse of a back-rower still rising, one whose ceiling is tied to the same qualities that already mark him out: graft, grit and a refusal to take a backward step.