My late grandfather will be watching: Weepu

The man many in New Zealand are calling 'the saviour' after his near-perfect performance in New Zealand's 33-10 quarter-final win over Argentina has become an online phenomenon.

All Blacks scrum half Piri Weepu is a hot topic on social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook, with one fan group even suggesting he should become New Zealand's next Prime Minister.

Not that he has noticed all the hype.

"I try to stay away from it," Weepu told a press conference on Friday.

The unassuming 28-year-old has also been called 'Mr Fixit' for kicking seven penalties from seven attempts in last Sunday's victory, another title that does not sit well with him.

"I guess I just managed to do what was required. It kind of helped that I kicked the majority of my conversions. I wouldn't say I'm Mr Fixit."

Father broke news

But the All Blacks' elation at making the semi-finals and going one better than Rugby World Cup 2007 did not last. Immediately after Sunday's match Weepu was told his paternal grandfather had died two days earlier.

"It was pretty tough at the beginning. Especially coming off the field on Sunday, seeing my father trying to get a hold of me. He pretty much broke the news."

It is understood 78-year-old Johnny Lui had pneumonia and died peacefully in a Wellington hospital.

Weepu returned home to Wainuiomata for the funeral on Tuesday.

"It was pretty tough but I'm back in camp now and I've got the support I need from the boys to help me get through this week and hopefully put in a good effort," he said.

"I've got Mr Joker (Ma'a Nonu) over here who always seems to put a smile on the majority ofthe boys' faces. It's good to be around good company when you need it, especially when times are tough."

Big match temperament

Weepu also has the full support of his coach, Graham Henry, who is relying on him to steer the team from the crucial half-back position against Australia in Sunday's semi-final.

"He's very tight with his family. His grandfather passing on is major, but he'll play for him, I think," said Henry.

"He's always been a quality player, he's always loved a big occasion and now that Daniel (Carter) isn't playing, there's more responsibility on nine to navigate the ship and take over a little bit more of the game, which he doesn't mind doing."

Even though his focus is firmly on winning, New Zealand's latest hero knows his No.1 fan will be at Eden Park, if only in spirit.

"I wouldn't say he'll be on my mind. I know he'll definitely be watching down on me," said Weepu.

"I was told by all my family that he was very proud of me and he'll definitely be watching down on me on Sunday."