Arnold keen to build on strong run

Editor

Brumbies lock Rory Arnold is hoping to celebrate his birthday on Friday, with a strong performance against the Reds in Canberra.

Arnold, who will turn 26 on game day, wants to carry the confidence he gained from his first two Wallabies caps into the Brumbies final three matches of the Super Rugby season.

He started the first two Tests against England, becoming Wallaby number 891 and the tallest player in history to represent Australia (208cm).

Now, Arnold wants to make the most of the Brumbies final three games of the regular Super Rugby season after spending four weeks in camp alongside some of Australia’s best players.

“We were training quite hard and it’s taken its toll on everyone’s bodies,” Arnold told the Brumbies' official website.

“It was awesome to get the opportunity to play both those tests, hopefully I can get another opportunity in The Rugby Championship or the Spring Tour, so I want to play well for the Brumbies and see what happens.”

Arnold said he is looking forward to the possibility of facing Reds lock, Kane Douglas, who has not played since injuring his knee in the Rugby World Cup Final against the All Blacks. Reports this week say Douglas is a chance of featuring against the Brumbies on Friday night.

“He’ll be looking to have a big game and me and Carts [Sam Carter] will be looking to do the same thing as well,” added Arnold.

Arnold was taken from the field in the Wallabies second Test after receiving a nasty cut above his eye but it won’t be of concern on Friday as he plans on throwing himself into whatever he needs to do to help the Brumbies.

“I copped a stray boot, but it’s healed up nicely… only 14 stitches,” said Arnold half jokingly.

“Now that we’re back in Super Rugby I’m really looking forward to this last stretch heading to the finals.”

“Looking forward to it.”