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It’s mission accomplished for the Hurricanes’ version of Grizzly Adams, who will soon become just another face on Wellington’s streets.
A relieved Jason Eaton played a full 80 minutes against the NSW Waratahs last night to make a successful return from a nine-month layoff with a serious knee injury which ruined his Rugby World Cup dream.
So on Wednesday, the bushy beard and flowing locks will finally go under the razor for charity.
Eaton hasn’t shaved since suffering the injury last April during the Super 14 and the shaggy look has elevated the 2006 All Blacks lock to cult hero status.
“It’s a bit of a reward for me for the hard work I’ve done over nine months of rehab. It’ll be good to get the new look and raise money for a good cause,” said Eaton, who is donating all the proceeds to cancer charity CanTeen.
“I’ll get around the track a bit quicker next week.”
Fans can pledge their support through the Hurricanes’ website, with the highest bidder earning the right to shave off Eaton’s hair in Wellington on Wednesday.
Eaton decided to shelve the razor until his first Super 14 game back for the Hurricanes, and the results have been spectacular.
“I didn’t realise quite what I was getting myself into. It’s going to be a new look and hopefully I’ll be anonymous for a few weeks, just be able to walk down the street with no-one recognising me.
“I’m looking forward to it, but I’ll also miss it a little bit. I’ve got attached to it over a few months of growth.
“It’s drawn a lot of attention, a lot of people wanting me to keep it and others wanting me to get rid of it.”
Eaton admitted men had given a largely positive response, while the young women of Wellington had offered a mixed reaction.
Despite last night’s 20-3 defeat in Sydney, Eaton was pleased with his own return and is determined to add to his 10 Test caps this year.
“I can move on now. It was great I was in the game and did a lot of work so it was a positive way to come back,” he said.
“There’s a goal to get back in the black jumper but first things first, I’ve got through 80 minutes so I’d just like to build on that.”
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.