6 Sep 2011

Franks happy to take punch for good of team

8:46 am on 6 September 2011

New Zealand's rugby World Cup prop Ben Franks says he's was willing to take a punch in the face for the good of the team if it meant an opposing player was sent off.

The 117kg, 1.85 metre strongman - who relishes the physical side of the game - says he's looking forward to facing the hard-hitting Tongan side in the opening match of the Cup on Friday.

And the 27-year-old says he was not worried about being on the receiving end of illegal activity, adding that he would not retaliate if provoked.