Dane Haylett-Petty has put his hand up to take over the Wallabies fullback role, declaring it his best fit, as coach Michael Cheika looks to get the most out of the damaging Israel Folau.
Star Folau's indifferent form this season, coupled with a hole at outside centre due to Samu Kerevi's ankle injury, have led to calls for Haylett-Petty to be given a run at fullback while moving the two-time John Eales Medal winner to No.13.
Haylett-Petty's scything runs from the wing have become increasingly crucial to the Australian attack, and could prove even more valuable if the 27-year-old is able to become more involved from fullback.
Haylett-Petty stars at fullback for the Western Force and was this week named the Wallabies' rookie of the year.
He acknowledges there's much to learn about the international game - which he's happily doing from the wing - but admits the No.15 jersey is the one he covets and is the position where he feels most comfortable.
"Definitely - I've played most footy at fullback and I enjoy the fact you get more ball there," he said from the team's London base on Tuesday.
"It's hard to stay out of the game at fullback.
"But at the moment I'm just enjoying playing on wing. I feel like I'm slowly finding my feet there and I'm just trying to improve every week."
The South Africa-born star has made a big impact in his maiden season of international rugby, but he credits the free-wheeling style encouraged by Cheika for his involvement.
Cheika demands his team plays 'the Australian way' - shorthand in Cheika's book for the attacking, running rugby which the Wallabies have been known for in generations past.
It's working in the favour of Haylett-Petty, whose kick returns from the wing twice led to tries in Australia's victory over Argentina at Twickenham a fortnight ago.
"(Cheika) is big on trying to excite the fans and play that Aussie style and that does suit me.
"But to win you've got to be able to adapt at times and I'm sure there's going to be times we're going to have to adapt."
Share
