Cross-code back Israel Folau could be included at full-back as well as on the wing for the Waratahs according to Michael Chieka.
With all positions currently vacant, Chieka has not ruled out for the former rugby league and AFL star operating from the back, despite Folau competing with the likes of Drew Mitchell, Adam Ashley-Cooper and Lachie Turner in the back three.
"He'll be playing in the backs somewhere. That's where he'll be doing all his training and we're very happy with the way he's progressing,'' said Cheika to the Sydney Morning Herald.
''You're kicking with a lot more pressure in rugby. To be honest, we haven't really focused too much on kicking at this stage and we've really put a lot towards our attacking game and I think that's something we can work on. I think the core theme of what we want to do is play attacking football.''
''I'd say all of them [are open], it's a clean slate. Obviously some guys are coming back from Wallaby representation in the spring series overseas.
"They have credit so they're in the box seat. Players who've been here now for three months of the pre-season will be ready to take their opportunity when it comes, whether it's the first game in Hobart against the Rebels or the second game.''
Comments
trappa says...
For the good of Oz rugby I hope the Tahs come good. Chiekas talk is positive and they have some good backs. The tahs however, have years of un-learning to do. The pigs think they are world-beaters and Barnes 1st option is to kick. As a result, his passing is atrocious and he rarely takes it to the line. At least Elsom and Mumm are no longer...
Posted 05:33 27th January 2013
ruck_man7 says...
He should start from the wing 1st. Then probably make the transition to 13, rob Horne has been pretty much one dimensional in that position. Fullback would be too demanding for a fresh code convert.
Should be an exciting 'Tahs backline, I just hope their forwards and Barnes give them as much room and go forward ball as possible.
Posted 23:24 24th January 2013
firepower says...
go Izzy!!
Posted 19:30 24th January 2013