I'm proud to be facing the Haka but must stay focused and not get emotional

Big test: Mako Vunipola in training ahead of Saturday’s match against the All Blacks

- Nick Purewal Rugby Correspondent

THE HAKA has the ability to transport Mako Vunipola back to his childhood, learning Tonga’s Sipi Tau war dance in his living room and giving front-room renditions with his father, brother and cousins.

The All Blacks’ Haka has the power to make the Saracens loose-head prop summon his heritage — but only if he lets it.

When he lines up against New Zealand before England’s Test match on Saturday, however, the thought processes will be entirely different.

“When we were young, we would practise the Sipi Tau in the living room, me and my brother (Billy) with my dad and our cousins,” Vunipola told Standard Sport.

“It’s significant in our lives, it’s where we come from and who we are as Tongans.

“There’s a lot of family pride, and I look back now as I’m getting older and think that I am definitely grateful to stand across from the Haka.

“It’s something special, it’s been part of the Kiwi culture for a long time, and it’s important to show respect to that.