Crusaders star Dan Carter confident he can take game to new level in final with Waratahs

IT is the worst nightmare for every Waratahs fan: Dan Carter has declared he is still improving and can hit new heights in Saturday’s grand final.

Crusaders Super Rugby star Dan Carter pictured in Homebush ahead of his sides Grand Final match against the NSW Waratahs this weekend. Picture: Toby Zerna

IT is the worst nightmare for every Waratahs fan: Dan Carter, the greatest playmaker in the game’s history, has declared that he can go to a level above what he has already shown in his glittering career.

The Crusaders centre is the greatest threat to the Waratahs’ quest for a maiden premiership, and he is determined to add to the multitude of trophies he has already won in his journey to becoming rugby’s most prolific pointscorer.

Asked if he could rise to another level in Saturday’s final and beyond, Carter replied: “I’d like to think so, these are the games I love playing in, this is when experienced guys like myself really need to step up and play well.

“I’ll be doing everything I can to ensure I play well for the team and within the team structures.

“The excitement, the motivation is there, it’s just a matter of backing yourself and going out there and doing it.”

Carter also revealed that the Crusaders had spotted a few chinks in the Waratahs’ armour.

“We’ll be mixing it up, we like to use the width of the field,” Carter said.

“We’ve had a good look at the Waratahs and there are some areas we’ll attack them, and get the ball in hand.”

Carter is no stranger to big games, but is hungrier than ever to win on Saturday at ANZ Stadium, with the record-breaking Crusaders not having won the title since 2008.

“This is why you play the game, to win titles,” Carter said.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be part of some great sides that have picked up a few cups and trophies and championships throughout my career, but for this team in particular it’s been a few years, 2008 was the last time.

“So this team is really hungry and excited and the fact that we’re in the final, we’ve given ourselves a chance.

“But we realise the hard work is still ahead of us and realise we’re in for a huge challenge up against the in-form side of the competition, playing on their home ground, which is going to be a huge challenge for us.”

Carter, who has had sabbaticals in recent years to preserve his body and cut the monotony of a 12-year professional career, said the breaks had refreshed him.

“Time will tell whether it (the sabbatical) has been a success but, at this early stage, I’ve really benefited from having a break and the body feels good and the motivation is extremely high,” Carter said.

“I know, mentally, my motivation is a lot higher than it normally is midway through the season, so that’s a real positive.

“I’ve been happy with the way I’ve been playing, just getting back and getting some game time has been great.”

The sabbatical is now being explored by the ARU to ensure top players like Israel Folau remain in the game long-term.

The Crusaders named an unchanged line-up for the final, only the second time this season they have been able to do so.

Originally published as Crusaders star Dan Carter confident he can take game to new level in final with Waratahs