When Liaki Moli runs out for his 50th Auckland match on Saturday he will be hoping it goes better than his first.

The 26-year-old lock has returned from a Super Rugby campaign with the Sunwolves in Japan for his seventh season with Auckland and will play his 50th provincial match against Canterbury on Saturday.

“I remember my first game very clearly,” recalled Moli.

“It was in 2010, against North Harbour. I played about three minutes; came on, threw a forward pass to Onosa’i (Auva’a) and he thought he’d scored a try but it was brought back.

“That was my first play in an Auckland jersey".

Since then, Moli has been a regular starter in the blue and white hoops, and this year ventured offshore for Super Rugby duties after a number of seasons with the Blues.

“It was a lot different. We played one pre-season game and then straight into it. It was a struggle at the start with the language barrier and different plays, they have a different style over there.

“I felt I played my best season of rugby.  I really wanted to come back because I enjoy playing for Auckland. Especially that 50th game, I couldn’t not come back and get that".

Moli also believes he has a point to prove.

“One of the other reasons I came back is because I wanted to prove myself. 

“My first year was probably my best year in Auckland colours, after that went through injury struggles. I came back to prove a point to myself, no one else. I have had a lot of criticism in the past and I have cut that out, it used to have an effect on me and my game a bit. Now it’s about me, my family and proving a point that it’s my season.”

Moli’s season was cut short last year, a broken arm suffered playing against Canterbury ended his season.

“It means pay back for me, especially after last year. I didn’t play that final but I felt it as much as the boys that were playing. It’s a good rivalry we have against Canterbury, I am looking forward to it.”

Auckland coach Nick White said Moli has been a good servant to the blue and white hoops.

“Saturday will be a huge occasion for our team, it always is when someone plays their 50th. 

“Especially Liaki, he is such a proud Aucklander and has a lot of passion for his team. He’s returned from Japan to play for Auckland so hopefully we can go out and play well for him so the occasion is a memorable one.”

It seems as though, regardless of the result on Saturday, Moli will be a happy man.

“There is a big enjoyment factor playing for Auckland. I love the jersey, I love the city and I love the brotherhood.”