Sale have won six out of their last seven regular-season Premiership games, with Ma'asi-White crossing in the most recent four Premiership semi-final: Leicester Tigers v Sale Sharks Venue:Mattioli Woods Welford RoadDate:Saturday 7 JuneKick-off:15:30 BST Coverage:Live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra, BBC Radio Leicester and BBC Radio Manchester Before Saturday's Premiership semi-final between the two teams, Sale centre Rekeiti Ma'asi-White is keen to clear something up. It's true that as an 11-year-old, his uncle gave him a Leicester shirt. But to say he was a Tigers fan isn't quite right. Because a young Ma'asi-White was more interested in the number 12 on the back, than the badge on the front. "I was a big fan of Manu," he says. "I only supported Leicester because of Manu really. "He has the same kind of background â he is of Samoan descent, I am half Tongan-half English, "I aspired to be like him and achieve what did he did. I was in the forwards at that age. Thankfully I progressed!" It wasn't just Tuilagi. Former All Black midfielders Malakai Fekitoa and Ma'a Nonu were also inspirations. But Tuilagi was the example Ma'asi-White had seen closest up. Ma'asi-White's father Viliami, who represented Tonga at 2003 Rugby World Cup, played with Manu's brother Anitelea at Leeds in the latter stages of his career. The two families bonded. "Manu used to come round when we lived in Leeds for a little session together of food and stuff," says Ma'asi-White. "I was quite young at the time, and didn't realise who everyone was, I didn't know how cool it was until I was a bit older." When Wasps went bust in 2022, Ma'asi-White and fellow academy prospect Asher Opoku-Fordjour were signed up by Sale. Tuilagi had left Leicester for the north west two years previously. "He told me I used to look like a little rat!" remembers Ma'asi-White of their reunion and shared memories of backyard get-togethers more than a decade previously. "I learned quite a bit from him though after that." Viliami is still his primary teacher though. Having played into his forties, Vili is now coaching, steering Oundle to the fourth tier this season. Rekeiti though is an impressive side project. Logging in from his Peterborough home, Viliami will watch footage of every Sale training session. The morning before every game, Rekeiti gets a call with a checklist of things to focus on. After, he will get another, reviewing whether he has hit those targets. "It is technical, mental, everything," says Ma'asi-White. "He will say, 'there is still more in you, you are not running hard enough, you need to tackle harder.' "And I love that because it pushes me to become a better player." Ma'asi-White's father, Viliami Ma'asi, won 36 caps for Tonga Ma'asi-White's improvement has been steep and stark. The 22-year-old, who started the season on loan at Championship side Caldy, only made his first start of the season for Sale in January. Tasked with thumping over the gainline against Toulon,he helped the Sharks to a 33-7 winand, with George Ford and Rob du Preez pulling the strings at 10 and 13, the 12 shirt has been his ever since. Ma'asi-White has scored in each of Sale's last four games, showing he can find holes, as well as break down doors. He was called into the England senior squad for the first time last month. If his freight-train physicality and deceptively fleet feet do for Leicester on Saturday, comparisons with his old idol Tuilagi and the clamour for his inclusion in England's summer tour to Argentina will only grow. Ma'asi-White hoists Saracens' Olly Hartley into the air in Sale's win over Saracens in April Opposite him at Welford Road will be a familiar face. He and Joe Woodward were England's under-20's centre partnership for a couple of years. "He is a very good distributor, good link player, a ball carrier and he has got that kicking game too - a triple threat really," Ma'asi-White says of his former team-mate. "I think we worked quite well together, we had some good times." Only one will be celebrating on Saturday though. Woodward and Leicesterwon at Welford Road last month, but Sale, 10 points up with half an hour to go, were left ruing indiscipline that let the hosts back into that game. "There has been a lot of talk about us not being an 80-minutes team," says Ma'asi-White. "We let them in the game in that second half so there is a big emphasis on discipline going into this weekend and to try and minimise that penalty count and use the scrum and line out to give us that advantage across the full game." If they do, a Premiership final awaits for Sale. And, for Ma'asi-White, the possibility of facing the Pumas with England will grow. "Going down to Pennyhill Park for that two-day camp, it was exciting, to see all these big-time players was special," he says. "I went with the idea that I would just give it everything. In the taxi home, I was just spent, I had no energy left. "I have to take it step by step and do my best here, but going to Argentina is the plan - that is my target." So far this season, those have worked out just fine.
The new Tuilagi? Sale's Ma'asi-White on following his idol
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Sale Sharks' Rekeiti Ma'asi-White Reflects on Influences Ahead of Premiership Semi-Final"
Bbc News
7.6
TruthLens AI Summary
Rekeiti Ma'asi-White, a promising centre for Sale Sharks, has emerged as a key player in the Premiership, notably helping his team win six of their last seven regular-season matches. As he prepares for the crucial semi-final against Leicester Tigers, Ma'asi-White reflects on his journey and inspirations, particularly his idol Manu Tuilagi. Despite being given a Leicester shirt by his uncle at age eleven, Ma'asi-White clarifies that his admiration was primarily for Tuilagi, who shares a similar Samoan background. His father's connections to Tuilagi's family during his rugby career in Leeds further fueled Ma'asi-White's aspirations. He credits Tuilagi, along with other rugby legends, for motivating him to pursue a successful career in rugby, and now, as he steps onto the field, he aims to emulate that success.
Ma'asi-White's rise in the sport has been remarkable, especially after being signed by Sale following the collapse of Wasps in 2022. His father, Viliami, who has a wealth of experience as a former Tongan international, continues to play a crucial role in his development, providing coaching and feedback that enhance Ma'asi-White's performance. This season, he has transitioned from a loan at Championship side Caldy to becoming a key player for Sale, scoring in four consecutive games. With his recent inclusion in the England senior squad, Ma'asi-White is poised for further opportunities, including a potential summer tour to Argentina. As he prepares to face Leicester Tigers, he emphasizes the importance of discipline and maintaining focus throughout the match, hoping to secure a Premiership final berth and continue his journey as a rugby player inspired by Tuilagi. His dedication and hard work indicate a promising future in rugby, both for his club and potentially on the international stage.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The news article highlights the journey of Rekeiti Ma'asi-White, a promising rugby player from Sale Sharks, who looks up to the renowned Manu Tuilagi as his idol. This narrative is both personal and professional, revealing insights into Ma'asi-White's background, influences, and aspirations within the sport. The piece serves to connect fans with the emotional aspects of sports, emphasizing the role of mentorship and inspiration in athletic development.
Purpose of the News Article
This article aims to showcase Ma'asi-White's admiration for Tuilagi and how this relationship has shaped his career in rugby. By focusing on personal anecdotes and the connection between the two players, the piece fosters a sense of community among fans and highlights the importance of role models in sports. It also serves to promote the upcoming semi-final match, generating excitement around the event.
Public Perception and Community Impact
The narrative fosters a positive perception of both Ma'asi-White and Tuilagi, portraying them as relatable figures who share common backgrounds and experiences. This connection can resonate particularly well with fans from similar ethnic backgrounds or those who appreciate the stories behind athletes' journeys. The article is likely to engage younger audiences who are looking for inspiration in their own sports endeavors.
Potential Omissions or Hidden Agendas
While the article is primarily focused on personal stories, it could downplay the competitive nature and pressures of professional sports. There might be an underlying intent to mask the broader issues within the rugby community, such as financial instability or the impact of injuries, which could be seen as less appealing to the audience.
Reliability of the Article
The article seems credible as it includes personal quotes and experiences from Ma'asi-White. However, it does have a promotional angle, particularly as it builds anticipation for an upcoming match. This dual purpose can sometimes blur the lines between reporting and promotion, making it essential for readers to consider the context.
Comparative Analysis with Other Articles
When compared to other sports news articles, this piece focuses more on personal stories rather than game statistics or team strategies. This human-interest angle is prevalent in sports journalism but may omit the competitive dynamics that fans also find engaging.
Impact on Society and Economy
The excitement generated by such narratives can play a role in enhancing viewership and attendance at matches, which in turn can positively impact local economies. Fans may be more inclined to support their teams financially when they feel a personal connection to the players.
Community Support and Target Audience
The article is likely to resonate with rugby fans, particularly those who value stories of perseverance and inspiration. It may appeal more to younger audiences and communities with ties to Pacific Islander heritage, as they see their cultural representation in Ma'asi-White’s journey.
Market Influence and Stock Implications
While this article may not directly influence stock markets, it contributes to the overall branding of rugby clubs, which can affect merchandise sales and sponsorship deals. As fan engagement increases, so too can the financial viability of the teams involved.
Relevance to Global Dynamics
The article does not directly address larger geopolitical issues but reflects the growing recognition of diversity and representation in sports. In today’s context, where inclusivity is increasingly important, stories like Ma'asi-White's contribute to a broader narrative of cultural appreciation in athletics.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
There is no clear indication that AI played a role in writing this article. However, AI could have been used to analyze trends in sports journalism or to assist in compiling statistics. The style and structure appear conventional, suggesting human authorship rather than automated generation.
In conclusion, the article provides a compelling glimpse into the life of Rekeiti Ma'asi-White while skillfully promoting the sport of rugby. Its focus on personal connections and inspirations serves both to engage the audience and to market the upcoming match, reflecting the dynamic nature of sports journalism.