Aaron Cruden and Sam Cane share two of the toughest jobs in New Zealand rugby.
Both are understudying two of the most high-profile All Blacks in recent years – Dan Carter and captain Richie McCaw.
Neither seems too fazed at the challenges facing them, although Cruden is slightly better positioned than 20-year-old Chiefs’ flanker Cane.
He has collected nine caps for the All Blacks since making his debut against Ireland two years ago, and started in the injured Carter’s place in last year’s Rugby World Cup final.
However, Cruden recognises he still has plenty to learn if he wants to replace Carter in the All Blacks starting line-up.
“I still think Dan’s the best No.10 in the world and if I’m able to learn from him, then that’s exactly what I’m going to do,” Cruden said.
“He’s always willing to help out the new guys in his position, so I’m just going to soak it all in, all the information that he gives me.”
Cane has also revelled in his chance over the last few weeks to learn from the best.
“It’s unbelievable – I’ve grown up watching Richie, idolising his play and how he is.
“To be running alongside him in training and having a chat to him is absolutely amazing, and something I’m really enjoying.”
However, Cane doesn’t have any unrealistic expectations about challenging McCaw for his spot.
“He’s the captain … All I’ll be doing is pushing to get named in the squad and then from there pushing to get into the 22. I’m not getting too far ahead of myself.”
The All Blacks wider training group completed their second camp in Wellington on Tuesday, with players returning to their franchises for the weekend’s 15th round of Super Rugby.
New All Blacks coach Steve Hansen names a 30-strong squad on Sunday for the three-Test against Ireland beginning in Auckland on June 9.