Former All Black superstar Charles Piutau is wasting no time in contributing to the success of new club Ulster. Ever since missing out on selection for New Zealand in their 2015 World Cup squad following a move to the UK, Piutau has been playing with a point to prove.
Considering the form he was in prior to the World Cup, he was certainly unlucky to miss out. Such is the maddening depth of talent in New Zealand, that they can seemingly afford to let a player of Piutau's capability walk away.
Alongside his brother Siale, Charles played brilliantly for Wasps during their 2015-2016 season, but has stuck by his decision to transfer to Ulster.
Although Wasps will surely miss Piutau, several other teams in the Premiership are perhaps breathing a little easier.
With his full range of skills on display, he rewarded Ulster in their preseason match against Northampton Saints on the weekend. Getting involved early on, Piutau scored a try of his own and contributed to two more, thus ensuring Man of the Match honours.
In what was probably his most impressive piece of play, Piutau took an awkward pass to explode through the line - leaving Courtney Lawes grasping at thin air. He then sprinted untouched for about 50 meters, testing out the defence with a little stutter-step before capping off the run with a brilliant, back-handed offload for a Jacob Stockdale try in the corner.
It should be a safe bet that Ulster are extremely pleased with their signing, thusfar. Ulster went on to win the friendly match 29-19, which you can view highlights of at the bottom of this post.
Ulster get their Guiness PRO12 campaign officially kicked off against Newport Gwent Dragons at home this coming Friday night.
Here is a video of some of his best bits of play, with the amusing commentary duo of Tommy Bowe and Dan Tuohy talking us through it. More highlights below that.
Match Highlights:
credit: ulster rugby