James O'Connor's move from full-back to the wing for Australia's Tri Nations opener against South Africa may be seen as a gamble by some, but the young Wallabies star is relishing the chance to match up with star Springbok Bryan Habana.
A stellar three-try performance for the Barbarians in early June saw O'Connor given the nod at full-back for the Wallabies' games against England and Ireland, but a reshuffle from coach Robbie Deans has seen utility back Adam Ashley-Cooper reclaim the number 15 jersey for Australia's first Tri Nations clash.
Ashley-Cooper's move to the custodian role has meant a straight swap to the right wing for O'Connor, and while the 19-year-old admits to having little experience on the flank there appears to be no nerves.
‘I'm getting my experience from training, but we've had a fair bit of competitiveness and game role-play so I'm pretty comfortable now,’ said O'Connor.
‘You work a lot more with the ball in hand (on the wing), looking for those inside balls.
‘The way the game's going now there's a high work rate for wingers whereas at number 15 it's more defensively a high work rate, so that could benefit my game.
‘You'll see me all over the field, that's for sure.’
For most in world rugby, the prospect of starting your first Test on the wing against 62-cap superstar Habana would be a cause for a heavy dose of butterflies, but an unwavering self-belief has O'Connor eagerly anticipating the showdown.
He said: ‘I'm looking forward to the challenge. I've had a few one-on-ones with Habana in the past so it's been a good experience so far.
‘I'm really looking forward to it; he's a physical player and he's got some good speed on him.’
Speaking with media at the team hotel on Tuesday, O'Connor's hunger for an open, free-running contest was evident, and after South Africa admitted earlier in the week to picking players suited to the fast-paced Suncorp Stadium surface, it seems the opposition will be happy to oblige.
The naturally aggressive O'Connor was quick to assure his new home on the wing would not deter his attacking instincts and the Western Force star was enthused at the prospect of linking up with gun playmakers Quade Cooper and Matt Giteau.
‘Hopefully I'll be hitting some holes off Quadey and Gits and getting involved wherever I can,’ he said.
‘We've been practising a lot of our counter-attacking this week. I think it's going to be pretty quick and enjoyable.’
