'Run-on debut like no other': Junior Wallabies flyer announces himself to the world after stunning hat-trick
In 15 minutes, Tim Ryan didn’t just put a smile on Joe Schmidt’s face, he announced himself to the Australian public by scoring a…
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.”
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