Ardie Savea runs riot with FOUR tries for Kobelco Kobe Steelers in big win

Reigning World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year Ardie Savea is loving life in Japan as he scored a whopping four tries for the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in the Japanese League One at the weekend.

The All Black superstar scored two tries in each half to power the Steelers to a 57-22 win over Sir Steve Hansen’s Toyota Verblitz which takes his side into the top three of Conference A.

Savea is currently on a season-long sabbatical in Japan and will return to New Zealand and be available for the All Blacks later this year.

Red-hot form

The period in Japan is certainly not negatively influencing his ability, with the first of the four tries showcasing his raw strength with a powerful pick and go close to the line.

The second try was much more of a gift but shows the power of positional play as Savea keeps the team’s width by standing on the touchline and receives a walk-in as a result.

The third and fourth tries show off the great back-row running ability with a sumptuous dummy sending the defenders running in the first try after the break. The key is the ball in two hands which makes it hard for defenders to make clear decisions.

Savea closed off with a pearler of a try as he received a pass in broken play only to turn on the afterburners and pin his ears back by running straight through the disjointed defence. He brought a big fend before an amusing dive for the like to complete his fourth try.

Ardie Savea bags FOUR in Japan and saves the best for last 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Jd1OqhxAZP

— RUGBYcomau (@rugbycomau) March 4, 2024

The flying All Black’s form will be music to Scott Robertson’s ears as the coach begins his tenure with New Zealand this year. The former Crusaders coach will also be keeping a keen eye on Beauden Barrett and Sam Cane who will both be available later this year when they return to their home country.

READ MORE: Who’s hot and who’s not: All Blacks stars shine, Jordie Barrett’s red card and ‘rude’ Bongi Mbonambi