How’s 2014 been for you?

It’s definitely been a big year. I didn’t really get much of a break from rugby so I had been going in, and in, and in!

Has it been tough?

Going back to sevens for the Commonwealth Games after playing for Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby and captaining Australia at the Junior World Cup was a good change. There’s a lot more space on the field.

Aged 20, isn’t that a lot of rugby to play?

If Australia want me to represent them anywhere I’m always happy to take that opportunity. It’s my country; a great honour. Although I ended up being a little slower at sevens than I used to be.

Why – are you heavier?

I had to put on about five or six kilos (for Super Rugby). That was hard, learning how to carry that extra body weight for 15s.

What are your aims now?

Playing 15s is where I want to be right now, and hopefully that means heading one day into representing the Wallabies.

RW verdict: The flanker is certainly versatile and also has leadership skills. Wallaby in waiting? Keep watch.

This Hotshot was first published in the December 2014 edition of Rugby World. Want to keep up to date with all rugby’s up and coming youngsters? Subscribe to the magazine here, or find out how to download the digital edition here.