Anscombe targets Wales call-up

Editor

After an injury-ridden season, Gareth Anscombe managed to get 25 minutes for the Cardiff Blues against Harlequins.

Despite ultimately losing the match, the Blues clawed their way back into the game from a 28-0 deficit to eventually end the match 34-26.

Anscombe, who lit up the crowd during his 25 minute cameo off the bench, expressed how grateful he is to be playing rugby again after being on the sidelines for so long.

The Kiwi also added that although his return wasn't perfect, he can definitely take some positives out the encounter and will be hoping to build on them.

"It is a pretty lonely place when you are rehabbing," he told WalesOnline.

"It's nice now to get a taste of it, 25 minutes and a chance for the lungs just to get used to rugby again. It was nice to be around the boys again and get my hands on the ball.

"When I came on, I just tried to bring a bit of energy and tempo off the bench and get my hands on the ball and keep it pretty simple.

"There was some good and some bad, but it was just nice to be back on the field and to start thinking like a rugby player again."

On the prospect of adding to his three caps for the Welsh national side, the 24-year-old is eager to get back into the international frame before the 2016 Six Nations kicks off next month.

"They keep their cards pretty close to their chest to be honest, they are pretty good at that," Anscombe added.

"I will have to see what happens. I don't think you can ever be fully confident. I don't think you can ever take playing for a national team as a sure thing.

"There is a lot of competition for places, but I would love to get involved."