Wallabies backrower Matt Hodgson is meant to be getting ready to jump into a suit for a wedding in Noosa – not a green and gold jersey for a comeback Test against the Springboks in Perth.
The six-Test Western Force skipper thought his Wallabies career was well and truly over when he was overlooked for the 2011 Rugby World Cup three years ago.
He hasn’t been back in the Test side since. And he never expected to again.
“After the disappointment I had of missing the World Cup and then not getting selected after that, you always think your opportunity has gone by,” the 33-year-old said.
But a trip to Australia’s east coast has now been put on ice after he was called up to the bench against the Springboks at Patersons Stadium this Saturday – his first Test since taking on the Boks back in July 2011.
“I’ve definitely enjoyed putting the holidays on hold to put on the jersey again,” Hodgson said.
“I was meant to be in Noosa for a few weddings, but hopefully I won’t be having any holidays anytime soon.”
Hodgson has been in career best form in 2014.
While the Force fell just short of making their first Super Rugby finals campaign, he was one of several forwards rewarded by Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie.
“It was a big team effort. Everyone trained hard in the off-season,” he said.
“But I also had a good solid break away from football, just lifting and getting the body and mind right.
“So I was fresh.”
With McKenzie naming a forwards heavy 6-2 split on the bench, there’s no doubt the Wallabies are preparing for a typically brutal clash against the Springboks up front.
It’s a style the Hodgson relishes, and is clearly a reason he’s been given the call-up.
“I like the tough stuff in the middle by putting my head where it shouldn’t be,” he said.
“So hopefully at the back end of the game I can really get in there and slow the ball down.”
Daz
Guest
I was talking about the current campaign. In the absence of Pocock, Hodgson is the man we need.
44bottles
Roar Guru
Hodgo is good but he shouldn't be captain. His spot is nowhere near guaranteed with Hooper, Pocock and him all contesting the 7. Hooper seems to be the preferred though and thus got captain
El Gamba
Roar Guru
I hope not Andy, his uncompromising style is what we need. Initially I thought the same as you but Link does use his bench and often well. We will see.
AndyS
Guest
Congratulations to him, but we'll see how much time he actually gets. My guess is not much unless the game has already got away from them.
Daz
Guest
Well just on age we can conveniently put him into the same category as Ritchie and many other current ABs. Compared to Brad Thorn he's a spring chicken. Most Olympic rowers don't reach their peak until about his age. He should have been our 7 and he should have been our captain. A truly inspirational player. McKenzie has made a rod for his own back in picking Hooper as captain. I trust Link's judgement, and maybe Hooper was the best of a bad lot but he has painted himself into a corner by doing so. Hodgo is the horse we need for the course coming up.
Hambone
Guest
looking forward to seeing him get some 'hopeful' quality time on the field against this bok pack... i think he will counter balance their 'brutes' quite well...
willy
Guest
well said. He is all guts. A real workhorse,
theoldmanofrugby
Guest
Well done Hodgo. Getting another cap will be great reward for your efforts.