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Wallabies backrower Scott Higginbotham is relishing the chance to tighten his grip on the No.6 jumper in Saturday’s Test (Sunday AM AEDT) against Wales in Cardiff.
With 75-Test veteran Rocky Elsom sidelined following hamstring surgery, Higginbotham is set to make only his fourth Test start this weekend.
Elsom, 28, an inspirational servant of Australian rugby, released his hold on the position of blindside flanker with an ordinary performance in the World Cup semi-final loss to New Zealand.
Such was the manner of his showing that it raised questions about whether the former Wallabies skipper will be able to become Australia’s first-choice No.6 again.
“It is a chance for me to step up,” Higginbotham said.
“Everyone plays football to start, I will take my chances.”
The 25-year-old former Australian Sevens player has enjoyed quite a 12 months since coming off the bench for his Test debut in Australia’s 59-16 win over France in Paris.
He was part of Queensland’s Super Rugby title-winning side and started in Australia’s 21-18 victory over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match.
The 195cm, 110kg Higginbotham’s combination of speed and athleticism for his size has proved attractive to Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.
The late bloomer was keener on surfing, soccer and basketball before rugby took hold of him at the age of 17.
However it has not all gone to script.
He hurt his back warming up for his Test debut against South Africa last year in Pretoria and his back seized up again after being named to play against the USA at the World Cup.
Higginbotham expected the Welsh to play an up-tempo style of play at the Millennium Stadium in Shane Williams’ farewell.
“It seemed alright for some of us Reds players talking after the match it was quick football like we play at the Reds,” he said.
He said limiting the influence of Wales skipper and openside flanker Sam Warburton was a key for the Australian backrow.
“He is a massive part of their team,” he said.
Fiery No.8 Ben McCalman (eye irritation) and skipper James Horwill (bench) were expected to return to the Australian starting lineup.
The Wallabies were due to release their team for the final match of the year at 9am (2000 AEDT) on Thursday.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.