Stephen Donald admits he is contemplating a shift to inside centre with game time in the New Zealand number 10 jersey appearing limited.

The Chiefs and Waikato fly-half is facing the prospect of little time in the pivot’s role with star playmaker Daniel Carter back from injury and Chiefs team-mate Mike Delany seemingly overtaking him in the pecking order now as well.

Donald replaced Delany for the final 15 minutes against Italy in Milan last weekend but has revealed the All Blacks coaches have spoken to him about broadening his skills at inside centre at Super 14 and Test level.

“I’m doing little bits and pieces to improve the things I need to do at 12. Moving forward if (Delany) is there at the Chiefs, who knows, I could end up playing a bit of time there,” Donald said.

“It’s certainly a bit different than 10 so I’ll have to spend some time in the saddle and learn it a bit.

“It’s an enjoyable role because you’ve got a bit more time and you’re one further out. I’m probably pretty suited to it.”

Donald started five Tests at fly-half this year during Carter’s injury-enforced absence but suffered plenty of criticism as the All Blacks struggled.

Then when he did start at 12 outside Carter in the 32-29 loss to South Africa in Hamilton it was not viewed as a great success.

However, the 25-year-old is taking the change in situation in his stride and is working hard to make an impact off the bench.

“With three first-fives coming over I was under no illusion there would be times I didn’t get game time,” he told stuff.co.nz.

“It’s part and parcel. I can’t really complain too much. I’ve had a pretty good crack at it over the Tri-Nations and that’s more than you could ask for and dream for.

“I come on at times at 10 and 12 and just hope to make a difference and make an impact. It’s a role I’ve come to appreciate and how to do it well and enjoy it.”(source)