Whitelock as shocked as anyone

The youngest of the four Whitelock brothers, Luke, has admitted to being as surprised as anyone by his call-up to the 35-man All Blacks squad.

Whitelock explained that he was suspicious of the text message he received on Sunday to congratulate him on his inclusion in the squad.

“I got a text and it was a bit of shock and I wasn’t too sure about it. Considering the limited time [with the Crusaders] it was a bit of a surprise, but I’m hugely stoked and excited about the opportunity,” Whitelock told Sportal.co.nz.

The former New Zealand Under-20 captain is joined by brother Sam in the squad, and isn’t yet sure if he is being considered as a No.8 or a flank by coach Steve Hansen.

The 21-year-old plans to make the most of his opportunity and will push all the way to be in the final 30-man squad that is announced on June 3.

“I guess it’s all pretty simple – I’ve got to make sure I perform and make the most of it,” he said.

“It’s what they [coaches] are thinking but it is a great opportunity for me and it is about how I present myself. I’ll keep pushing from the bottom and really soak up as much as I can.”

Whitelock’s next task is to try and establish himself as a more perminant member of the Crusaders starting XV, having started just two matches this season.

“I need to keep developing my game and show that you’re good enough to make the team every week by performing on the field. That’s the biggest thing,” he added.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has added that he hadn’t expected Whitelock to get the call so early in his career.

“I’m a little surprised but really pleased for him,” Blackadder said. “They believe he’s got a really good future which is why we’ve put him in [the Crusaders]. We believe in him and he’s got a great future but like everyone else I was a little surprised,” Blackadder said.

“It’s good to see a few young guys in there like Luke and Brad Shields so they’re obviously selecting with an eye to the future as well.”