In the world of rugby, where players often crave the spotlight, Corey Kellow stands out as a humble and unassuming figure. Yet, his recent streak of try-scoring prowess has quietly placed him among the elite of Canterbury's champions. With five consecutive tries in five wins, Kellow has joined an exclusive club that includes the likes of Randall Scott, Dale Atkins, and Justin Marshall.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the context of Kellow's journey. He's not just a try-scoring machine; he's a dogged openside flanker who has overcome a significant injury to return to the field. His try against Southland, the first and only time he played in a Ranfurly Shield game, is a testament to his resilience and determination.
The Challenge Ahead
As Canterbury prepares to face Otago in a bid to reclaim the Ranfurly Shield, the stakes are high. Otago, fueled by vengeance, is in top form, having dispatched Southland in the first round. Kellow, ever the optimist, sees the challenge as an exciting opportunity. He recognizes the strengths of Otago's loose forwards, including the formidable Christian Lio-Willie, an All Black, and Lucas Casey, who scored two tries in last year's Shield game.
Overcoming Adversity
Kellow's biggest test came in the form of a serious knee injury, a rare setback for a player who has consistently delivered on the field. He underwent surgery and credits the support of the Canterbury medical staff and fellow players like Johnny McNicholl and Billy Harmon for his recovery. While he enjoyed the introspection that injury brought, Kellow admits there were challenging moments of frustration and self-doubt.
Breaking Through
Kellow's style of play, a classical tackling and support game, contrasts with the All Blacks' preference for taller, more versatile loose forwards. In my opinion, this presents an interesting dilemma for selectors. How do you accommodate players like Kellow, who excel in their own right, but may not fit the traditional mold? Kellow himself acknowledges the challenge, having worked on his versatility by playing at number eight and developing multiple skills.
The selection of Leicester Fainga'anuku, who transitioned from the backs to openside for the Crusaders, offers a glimmer of hope. Fainga'anuku's success highlights the importance of adaptability and quick learning in modern rugby. However, as Kellow rightly points out, not everyone can be a Leicester.
A Canterbury Success Story
Kellow's journey to Canterbury began with an open mindset and a scholarship to Lincoln University. He credits his success to the support of good teammates, coaching, and the guidance of former Crusaders and All Blacks coach Scott Robertson. Now a homeowner in Canterbury, Kellow's story is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and a growth mindset.
Historical Context
The upcoming match against Otago carries a rich historical weight. Canterbury and Otago have a long-standing rivalry, with Canterbury leading the head-to-head record in the NPC era. The Ranfurly Shield, a symbol of dominance, adds an extra layer of intensity to the encounter. Canterbury's record in Shield matches is impressive, with 153 wins in 202 matches, while Otago has 48 wins in 97 matches.
A Legacy of Try-Scoring
Canterbury has a proud tradition of try-scoring prowess, with Fijian international Paula Bale leading the way with 93 tries in 102 appearances. Bale's streak of ten consecutive tries, including a memorable double against Otago in 1994, is a benchmark that few have matched. Other notable names include Craig Green, Simon Forrest, Joe Maddock, and Nathan Mauger, who have all scored tries in five consecutive first-class matches for Canterbury.
Conclusion
As Canterbury takes on Otago, the focus will be not just on the Ranfurly Shield, but on the individual stories of resilience and excellence that make rugby such a captivating sport. Corey Kellow's journey, from humble beginnings to a try-scoring streak, is a reminder that success often comes to those who persevere and adapt. In a game where physical prowess is celebrated, it's the mental fortitude and tactical versatility that truly set players apart.
