Ken Pisi has his sights set on matching the achievements of elder brother George after moving to join him at Northampton Saints for the coming season.
Pisi senior made an immediate impact during his debut campaign at Franklin’s Gardens, with the centre being named as Supporters and Player’s Player of the Year.
He also featured in the Aviva Premiership Dream Team, and seeing how his sibling was getting on in England was what convinced winger Ken to come over and join him.
“It was pretty easy really,” he said. “I saw a couple of the games last year from watching George and I thought that it’s time to move away from New Zealand to come and experience something new. I’m just happy to be here.
“I watched a few of his games and talked to him over the phone. He said it was really good with a good bunch of guys and a positive environment, and that made my decision to come to the Saints a bit easier.
“That’s why it has been easy [settling in], George has been a big help to me so it’s good. It’s not really been a big culture shock – it’s pretty much the same as in New Zealand.
“He has done well here and hopefully I can do better.”
The youngest of the three rugby playing brothers, Pisi followed in the footsteps of Tusi and George by playing for provincial side North Harbour in New Zealand’s ITM Cup.
The 23-year-old has also showcased his talents for Samoa’s sevens team and this summer earned his full international cap after being called into the senior side.
Pisi may not have envisaged playing in the Premiership one day, but his impressions of the competition changed from watching his brother in action.
He explained: “When I was playing back in New Zealand I always thought that English rugby was a bit boring because it was always forward orientated, but after seeing how the Saints play and the Premiership, they have changed. They like to use the ball more.
“They’re looking to go wide and obviously we’re going to get the ball more, and then you’ll see a lot more from us.
“The fans can expect to see some speed out wide, a step and agility, and just finishing off what the big boys and the inside backs give us.”
Pisi got his first appearance for Northampton in last Friday’s 30-28 defeat to Zebre, playing in the second half, and is set to feature again when they host Leinster on Saturday.
But he already has his eyes on being involved when the Premiership season kicks off with a trip to Gloucester on Saturday, September 1.
“I’m enjoying it,” says Pisi of his new surroundings. “They’re a good bunch of guys and it has been easy getting along with the boys. We’re just trying to be positive. We can’t wait to kick off the season.”
