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Wellington - New Zealand wing Israel Dagg is pushing hard to become first-choice goal-kicker for the team after impressing against Argentina last week.
The 28-year-old sent over a long-range penalty in Hamilton and with Beauden Barrett unconvincing off the tee, it appears Dagg has a chance.
Dagg admitted to trying to impress assistant coach Ian Foster in training and it seems to be working, with Foster revealing the latest news.
"I used to send him down the other end where the amateur kickers went, until I wanted to see how serious he is about it," he told NZ Newswire.
"He is kicking the ball well. He has got a great attitude towards it. He wants to kick and it was good to see him step up and want that penalty."
Barrett, who has been playing superbly well around the field, has a 72 percent record off the tee in Test rugby this year. But it remains to be seen who will kick on Saturday against South Africa, with Dagg eager for the responsibility as he continues to pester coach Foster.
"Every time he's around I just try to get the tee out and kick it in front of him," he said.
"I'm just going to keep chipping away, it's just something good to add to your bow. I felt with injuries and things I might get a little opportunity so I'll just keep practising and practising."
