Rampaging second rower Nathan Hindmarsh is the toast of te Highlands today after starring in Australia’s convincing 40-12 World Cup win over New Zealand on the weekend.

The 21 tear old second rower from Robertson has gone from a relative unknown to a rugby league superstar in the tournament and no doubt has a huge future in the game.

But the weekend’s performance was not without its nervous moments as Hindmarsh claimed he felt ill all week at the prospect of playing in the big match.

But the Parramatta backrower finally shook off the nerves - and dogged Kiwi defence - to score a try and help the Kangaroos overcome New Zealand 40-12 to claim their ninth World Cup.

“I was on the verge of spewing,” said Hindmarsh.

“I was shaking like a leaf.

“Once I run out, I’m not too bad but sitting in the change rooms before we run out, that’s when I get really nervous.

“But when I went out, there was a bit of a buzz, the crowd was good.

“Once I was out there I was fine.”

Hindmarsh came off the interchange bench early in the match and played a pivotal role in Australia’s victory.

Going into the break at 6-0, the Aussies were far from home but when Captain Brad Fittler put Hindmarsh through a gap in the 44th minute the Aussies earned some much needed breathing space.

But despite playing the tournament of his life, he was not completely satisfied with his game.

“I could have done a bit more. I wasn’t really happy with my attack but I was happy with my defence,” Hindmarsh said.

“I was happy (with the try) but I wasn’t too happy because we didn’t have too much of a lead so I didn’t think it would make a difference.”