Phil Waugh has insisted that his Australia international career is far from finished, with a strong 2010 campaign his personal objective.
The veteran flank, who was left out the Wallaby squad that is currently touring Europe, has been recovering from a leg injury over recent weeks.
But Waugh has told reporters on Monday that he will not give up on getting back into the gold jersey despite the impressive form of David Pocock.
"You've got to back yourself, I always back myself and I can only control the way I play, I can't control the way he plays," he said, speaking to AAP.
"It's just a matter of having a big 2010."
The hard-working 30-year-old was speaking at the Waratahs' first pre-season training session ahead of the upcoming Super 14 season.
But it seems that he and George Smith are now playing third and second fiddle respectively at Test level to the youthful up-and-comer, which has surprised Waugh in respect of Robbie Deans' decision not to use Smith's experience.
"I was surprised he didn't get on there at the end (against Ireland), particularly in those tight clashes at the end of the game where experience really matters," he continued.
"I'm sure he will get a run this week against Scotland and he will do what George does and perform well. In saying that I think it was great that David Pocock played well in the Test match, I think he needed a strong game and he had a strong game."
Comments
Be the first to comment on this story..