Adam Coleman up for fight to reclaim Wallabies jersey

Former Western Force second-row Adam Coleman is looking forward to playing in Perth again for Australia against New Zealand, if selected.

Coleman, who used to play for the Force at nib Stadium, could return to the Wallabies squad this week for the game at Optus Stadium.

Injury has kept the lock out of the opening two rounds of the Rugby Championship, but now he’s fit again and raring to go on Saturday.

“I haven’t played that much footy this year, I’ve been unlucky with injury, so I would have preferred to play to be honest,” Coleman said.

“The calf pushed me back a week or two. I’m back now and that is what matters and I’ve got to make sure I make the most of my time while I’m in camp.

“Obviously I’d love to play this week but I’ve got to get through a week of training with the boys and just put my best foot forward. The other locks are really playing well. Isaac and Rory and Simmo off the bench, they’re really competing and putting on good performances.

“It’s exciting to see the depth in Australian rugby and just to see the guys competing. There’s so much competition within the squad not only in the locks but throughout various positions now. It’s getting to that crunch time where selections are going to have to be very tough for Cheik and that’s a good thing for Australian rugby.”

Depth in the pack has been noticeable for the Wallabies this year and Coleman admits it’s helping all the players improve their own games.

“It’s a great opportunity to make sure I keep improving as a player but also just keep competition. I can’t say it enough – competition at training goes a long way onto playing on the weekend,” he said.

“I know if my body is right and I’m enjoying my time in camp my football goes a long way.

“I love competition at the highest level and against the best. Seeing the boys perform last week really gave me that itch to get back in the squad and fight for a gold jersey again.”