Stand-in flyhalf Ben Lucas is licking his lips at the prospect of an extended run in Queensland's No.10 jersey.
So often the Reds' backline Mr Fix-it, Lucas has the opportunity to play out the remainder of the campaign at five-eighth following the season-ending shoulder injury to Quade Cooper.
Lucas spent most of his junior days playing five-eighth before becoming a utility option for the Reds, filling in at fullback, winger and halfback as well as No.10 since his debut in 2008.
He took over from Cooper following the Wallaby star's injury in the controversial 30-27 loss to the Melbourne Rebels, scoring a try and doing enough to retain the role for Friday's clash with the Highlanders in Brisbane.
"I've played it my whole life so anytime I do have to go back to 10 things come pretty naturally," Lucas said.
"I can fit back in pretty well."
Lucas admits his selection will mean "subtle" changes for the Reds style of play but he's confident he's got the ability to deliver in Cooper's absence.
He also feels he has the pre-existing relationship to combine with halfback Will Genia in what will be the Wallaby No.9's 100th appearance for Queensland.
"I like to think my passing game's pretty good as well. Hopefully we'll be able to get some width in our game and attack and get some points," he said.
"I played with Will all through my school career and just after school. He's one of the best halfbacks in the world so it makes my job pretty easy just sitting inside there."
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