Lopeti Timani reckons he can provide the Wallabies with the physicality they've been sorely missing and eventually become one of the world's best in his position.
The 26-year-old, who made five starts on last year's European tour, will make his first Test appearance of the year in Saturday's clash with Italy.
He has ample scope to make an impact at Suncorp Stadium with the Azzurri missing their usual man at the back of the scrum, long-time captain Sergio Parisse.
Timani said it was tough watching last weekend's defeat to Scotland because he knew he could have made a difference with his imposing 123kg frame and incredible leg-driving power.
"We needed someone like myself in the middle of the field," he said.
"When I get my chance this week I'll make sure I bring that physicality, aggression, ball-carrying, big tackles.
"I can make a difference on the game."
Highly rated by coach Michael Cheika, Timani has had a stop-start season due to injuries and suspension and has not played a minute of Super Rugby this year at No.8, his favoured position, because the Melbourne Rebels have needed him as second-row cover.
But he believes he has only reached around 80 per cent of his potential.
"I still have a lot of stuff to work and try and improve so I can be my best, not in Australia but around the world," he said.
"I'm feeling confident. The only thing I need to work on is my fitness.
"(Cheika) wants physicality and aggression from me. It's kind of my strength, I need to bring it to the game very week.
With Perisse rested, Italy will field South African-born Dries van Schalkwyk at No.8.
But Wallabies scrum coach Mario Ledesma tips they'll actually play better without their inspirational skipper.
"When they play, it's all about him," he said.
"He takes everything - he's pushing the 10 to get the ball, all the lineout and scrum calls are around him."
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