Hunt raring to get into some ‘proper rugby’

• Published date: 20 January 2023
• Publication title: Sports Tab

The Highlanders first five has declared he is fit, healthy and absolutely frothing to return to Super Rugby action after the toughest spell of his career

Hunt (27) has not kicked a ball in anger since a nasty head clash with Richard Kahui during a game against the Force at Forsyth Barr Stadium last May, followed by months of uncertainty over ongoing head/neck issues.

He missed the entire NPC for Tasman before getting the all-clear, and he has been steadily working his way back into full training duties for the Highlanders.

‘‘It’s obviously been a tricky year, just trying to work some things out,’’ Hunt said yesterday.

‘‘I’m now back into everything fulltime. It’s been great. I’m loving it, and feeling really confident about getting into some proper rugby.

‘‘I’ve done PBs in fitness, my strength is good, and physically I’m feeling great. And my mental confidence is only building.’’

Hunt is a classy and experienced operator but that took confidence took a significant dive last year.

He had come off the bench — Sam Gilbert made a surprise start in the No 10 jersey — against the Force when he went to scoop up a ball and conked heads with the upright Kahui.

It was a scary moment in itself, but Hunt has revealed his medical issues had already been a concern following previous concussions.

‘‘There had been symptoms for about eight months before. So that incident was really just the straw that broke the camel’s back, I suppose.

‘‘There was a lot of concern and worry. I really had to ask a few deeper questions about what was going on with me.

‘‘Just a ton of worry, I suppose. And you hear stories of older players going through tough times, and you see articles about these lawsuits happening overseas ... it’s a big topic.

‘‘I’m only 27, but even thoughts of post-career come into your head.

‘‘There was lots of time thinking about what was going on. First thing in the morning, and last thing at night, and that concern does sort of bog you down.

‘‘I’ve been really fortunate with the medical support since then to really dig deep and make sure I am all good.

‘‘It was pretty scary at the time. But I’m feeling great and I’ve got the all-clear, and I am feeling awesome about getting back into my footy career.’’

Hunt does not have to look far for an example of a player who dealt with head injuries and came through the other side.

He has had a couple of informal chats with new assistant coach Ben Smith, the...