As the Highlanders put together a veritable ‘Dream Team’ for the 2013 campaign their forward-pack will be bolstered not only by the influx of experienced veterans that coach Jamie Joseph has attracted, but also by some exciting young talent, including the Tasman Makos’ Joe Wheeler.
Born in Christchurch in 1987, the robust forward, a product of the Marlborough Boys High 1st XV, is equally at home on the blindside flank or locking the scrum, and his versatility was recognised by the Crusaders, where he was a squad member for two seasons, making his debut against the Sharks in 2010.
With 41 provincial caps for Tasman under his belt, Wheeler’s career has been interrupted on several occasions by long injury layoffs, but his potential has never been in question, and the mobile forward will add much to the Highlanders pack.