Barnes betting on some 'big hits'
Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:22
Back to Brisbane: Waratahs back Berrick Barnes
Wallaby vice-captain Berrick Barnes is betting on some 'big hits' from his former teammates at the Reds, when he returns to Brisbane with the Warartahs for their Super 14 opener on Saturday.
"I hear they're taking bets on who's going to smash me first," Barnes said at the Waratahs season launch on Monday.
"I've no doubt there will be some fiery exchanges early, but both teams I think are hoping to use the ball, so hopefully the fans will see a bit of a spectacle."
Whether Barnes will feature at flyhalf or inside centre for the Waratahs is still a mystery with the adaptable Wallaby able to fit in effectively in either position.
"It doesn't worry me what number I wear on my back, I couldn't care if it's 35," he said of his role in the Waratahs' back-line.
"It's all about what you do out there and your performance.
"Obviously fans and other people like to see what numbers are on people's backs and all that sort of jazz but realistically as a player you're out there to do a job and that's to try and get the four points for your team, so that's what we'll be doing," he added.
Waratahs coach Chris Hickey is delighted to have Barnes at his disposal this season as the New South Wales outfit take aim at what would be a maiden Super 14 title.
"When I look at Berrick I see a pretty complete player," Hickey said.
"His attacking skills are probably the obvious skills that people see but I think defensively he reads the defence very well and he's also got a strong kicking game."
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