New Zealand coach Scott Robertson has hailed Fabian Holland's rise to the All Blacks as "movie sort of stuff." The Dutch-born lock is set to make his debut against France in the first Test at Dunedin on Saturday. Holland, 22, is one of four uncapped players in the starting XV.

Holland's journey began in Castricum, Netherlands, where he watched the All Blacks sevens team train in 2014 at the age of 11. Five years later, he moved to New Zealand to pursue his dream of playing professional rugby. "He's pretty excited. From Zeeland to New Zealand," Robertson said. "He's come a long way. It's a great story. Pretty single-minded from a 14-year-old to make that call to come over and represent another country in a game he loves - and he saw the All Blacks as the ultimate."

Holland's passion for rugby was evident from a young age. He started playing at Castricum Rugby Club at five and met All Blacks sevens captain DJ Forbes and Akira Ioane during their training session in his hometown. "As soon as I was on the field, I was a different little boy, to be honest," Holland recalled in a 2021 interview. "I developed more and more passion about rugby and there are not a lot of countries like New Zealand when it comes to passion about rugby."

Initially arriving in New Zealand for a six-month stint at Christchurch Boys' High School, Holland's rise has been rapid. He secured a developmental contract with the Highlanders in 2021 and signed a professional deal with the Super Rugby side the following year. On Saturday, he will line up alongside former Otago and Highlanders team-mate Christian Lio-Willie, who is also set to make his All Blacks debut.

Robertson noted the significance of Holland's debut at Forsyth Barr Stadium, home of the Highlanders. "I'm sure Fabian's Highlanders supporters, and Christian's Otago fans, will be out in full force," Robertson said. Holland's journey from the Netherlands to the pinnacle of rugby is a testament to his dedication and love for the game.