Pretorius ready to make an impact

Andries Pretorius is determined to turn up the heat on Toby Faletau as he bids to follow in the footsteps of his wife Rosie.

The South African-born No.8 was one of five newcomers in the Six Nations squad selected by Rob Howley last week.

But the Cardiff Blues captain is not satisfied with being merely a squad member and is aiming to become the second Pretorius to win a Welsh cap – with Rosie an established member of Wales' netball team.

"There's a bit of banter that she has more Wales caps than me," said Pretorius.

"Until I manage to catch up with her, she will always have the bragging rights.

"It is fantastic to have her around and we get a lot of motivation from each other and we both push ourselves.

"For her to be playing at the pinnacle of her sport and for me to see how she has progressed over the last couple of years from university to the Celtic Dragons and the Welsh squad is quite inspiring."

Pretorius linked up with the national squad on Monday and he is ready to get stuck in as he bids to earn a matchday spot.

"You know the hard work starts now and you don't want to just make up the numbers," added Pretorius.

"You want to create an environment where there is competition for places and that will be the benefit for the team.

"Toby is a very good player and I am hoping to learn from him.

"I might be older than Toby but I have a lot to learn from him because he is an international regular. As a rugby player your learning never stops.

"But I am also trying to bring some of my experience and help him along the way.

"Toby is a very dynamic player and has that ability to create something out of nothing.

"That is where I am hoping to learn from him and also bring my game management skills to the table.

"I pride myself on my workrate and being able to read the game."