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Queensland Reds sharp-shooter Mike Harris can elevate himself onto the Wallabies bench by piloting University to a Queensland club premiership on Sunday.
New Zealand product Harris will play just his third match for Uni in the grand final against defending premiers Sunnybank at Ballymore but has a huge role to play.
The goalkicking No.10 or 12 returns to the five-eighth position where he stared the year for the Reds in a match which doubles as a Test audition for him.
Quade Cooper’s knee injury will see Kurtley Beale promoted to the Wallabies starting 15 to play South Africa in Pretoria on September 30, leaving a spare spot on the bench.
With just 10 minutes of on-field action over the past month, Harris is delighted Test coach Robbie Deans has allowed him a late Tuesday flight to the Republic.
“I’m really excited about it,” he told AAP.
“Obviously I haven’t played a lot of rugby for the Wallabies so the chance to get some footy in and to play in a grand final is huge.
“I’m definitely excited to have a go at 10. I haven’t played a lot there this year so it’s good.
“With Quade needing another operation it opens up a spot and hopefully I have a good showing in the grand final in the 10 jersey to prove my wares and push for that bench spot.
“I definitely want to grab the chance.”
Harris will line up against fellow Wallabies squad-members Ben Tapuai and Rob Simmons who will team up for Sunnybank.
It’s a battle of the 2010 champions (Uni) against the 2011 premiers and both enter the clash in strong form following respective thumpings of Brothers.
Uni will also feature Reds players James Hanson and Luke Morahan while the Dragons boast Queensland props Greg Holmes and Albert Anae and Melbourne Rebels fullback Richard Kingi.
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.