After the bitter disappointment of missing out on selection for the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Liam Messam realises just how precious a place in this squad is.
"You're always nervous when any All Blacks team gets named," said Messam. "I've been through it so I knew what to expect."
With a new-born baby at home the Waikato flanker has been operating on a shortage of sleep, but awoke to a welcome phone call this morning.
"I found out this morning, Gilbert Enoka rang me. So it's a happy house at the moment."
Despite the All Blacks having won the previous World Cup, Messam was adamant that it was both a fresh challenge and team.
"We're not defending champions," stated Messam. "It's a whole different team."
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