Big rugby future awaits Ioane brothers

(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Rieko and Akira Ioane are two of the rising stars of New Zealand rugby, but both are well grounded and choose not to look too far ahead.

The brothers are back in Auckland colours for provincial rugby, although Rieko's had a glimpse of the All Black jersey, called in as an injury replacement before the second Bledisloe Test.

"Being young, it's just eye opening, like a little kid in a candy store with all those guys walking round," Rieko said.

"I just enjoyed myself and tried to soak up as much as I could."

The pair have already turned out for the New Zealand Sevens team on the World Series and at the Rio Olympics.

There's no sibling rivalry despite the younger Ioane edging in front in the race for higher honours.

"Maybe, different positions so have to take that into account," Akira said with a smile. "But yeah, pretty proud of how he got called up."

Akira's not doing his own chances any harm, but right now the 21-year-old is just enjoying the ride.

"I'm not looking too far ahead.

"I just like to play good for Auckland and if I do go higher then I'll take it with both hands but just for now I'll concentrate on playing well for Mitre10 cup and see what goes on."

If the brothers keep up their form, what goes on is likely to be a black jersey.

The only question appears to be when.

Newshub.