Berrick Barnes training at fullback as the battle for Wallabies No.15 jumper heats up

BERRICK Barnes has revealed he’s been training predominantly at fullback in preparation for Saturday’s first Test against the British and Irish Lions

BERRICK Barnes has revealed heÂ’s been training predominantly at fullback in preparation for SaturdayÂ’s first Test against the British and Irish Lions

The veteran Wallabies utility is in-line to make the starting team for the Suncorp Stadium Test despite playing limited Super Rugby minutes this season.

It is a battle between Barnes and Kurtley Beale to the wear the Wallabies No.15 jersey.

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has not told the players who has made the team, with the side’s announcement expected Thursday.

Asked this morning if he had been preparing to play fullback, Barnes replied “Yeah, training mostly there and then also as a utility player in case there are any injuries so we will see what Robbie wants to go with”.

“Everyone asks you what position you will play or if you will come off the bench but I firmly believe that a 23 man squad will be needed to get it done.

“As we have seen in Super Rugby games the game is often decided in the last ten minutes. Often, whoever has a stronger bench and finishes the game better comes out on top.”

The Lions are still waiting for news on injured centre Jamie Roberts who is not expected to recover from a right hamstring injury in time for Saturday’s first Test.

Barnes said while Roberts was an excellent player, the Lions had depth in their centres to cover his omission.

“If it is right that Jamie is injured it is unfortunate for him because he’s had injury problems at key moments in his career and he’s bloody good player,” Barnes said.

“They have a lot of depth there. I don’t think it will be an issue.

“The Lions have been particularly good, especially against the Waratahs. Having been on the other end, going on tours against side that have nothing to lose it is tough and I think they have handled the pressure well.”