Not many people can say they’ve scored a hat-trick against Australia to win a World Cup. In May 2015, the NZ Men’s Over 35s beat their Trans-Tasman rivals in Coffs Harbour 6 - 5. The hero on that day was Benn Seebeck. 

New Zealand went through the tournament’s round-robin unbeaten which included big wins against Japan (17 – 1), Fiji (13 – 1), and France (11 – 4). They also comprehensively beat Australia 9 – 4 which gave them momentum heading into the playoffs. In true form, Australia put up a fight against the Kiwis in the final. 

As Seebeck recalls, “It was a tough game, I remember being buggered, but it always felt like we were in control. The first try was in the first set for the game, the boys set up a really good helmet. I came round on the backdoor, Leon (Skinner) did a great show and it opened up.”

“The second one Scott (Grant) picked from a ‘33’ and I was on the end of it. The third one was pretty similar- with Corey (Tauwhare) picking, and me hitting a hole. All three were good team tries, I was just the lucky recipient.”

The 35s had a strong line-up that included legends Leon Skinner, Corey Tauwhare, and Scott Grant, with Brian Archer at the helm as coach. Four years can seem like an eternity, but the conditions off the field are what Seebeck remembers vividly. 

“The rain probably stands out the most, it was unbelievable. But I really enjoyed hanging out with the boys, we didn’t over train or try to complicate things, we just spent time together and really gelled as a team.”

World Cup final wins over Australia are few and far between. In fact, a quick google search will show you that New Zealand has only eight titles in 30 years of World Cups. The best players aren’t always available due to cost, and there are some selection policies which are out of the coach’s control. But there are things that the Kiwis can work on. 

“I also think we’ve been guilty of getting a bit fancy with our defence policies over the years.”

While his exploits managed to get NZ over the line, Seebeck is quick to acknowledge others for their successful run in Coffs Harbour.

“To be honest everyone stood up and did their role, we all worked hard for each other and had that trust that in your mate next to you.”

New Zealand will head to Malaysia with seven Masters sides which are the 27 Women, 35 Women, 30 Mixed, 35 Men, 40 Men, 45 Men, and the 50 Men. Seebeck emphasises that mental preparation and training is crucial leading into Malaysia. 

“Enjoy each moment, you’ve worked hard to be in this position, so make the most of it. Hangout with your teammates and really build that bond, a strong team unit is the key to success.”

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Article added: Friday 29 March 2019