Wallabies hopeful Jock Campbell reacts to positional switch
He’s waited a long time for a Wallabies opportunity, and now that he’s a step closer, this Queensland Red is not about to make a fuss about a positional switch.
Wallabies hopeful Jock Campbell’s preferred position is fullback, but he’s not about to “kick stones” about losing Queensland’s No.15 jersey to Jordan Petaia.
Late bloomer Campbell is a step closer to a Wallabies debut after being named in a 40-man national training squad that has assembled for a short Gold Coast camp this week.
Currently sidelined with a hand injury that ruled him out of Queensland’s 21-7 weekend defeat of the Brumbies, Campbell started the Super Rugby Pacific season impressively for the Reds at fullback.
His form and style even had Reds coach and former dual code international Brad Thorn comparing him to rugby league great Darren Lockyer.
However, Thorn then made the decision to move Campbell to the wing and shift the electrifying Petaia from the wing to fullback ahead of the Reds’ 33-28 round 4 win over Fijian Drua.
Campbell stayed on the wing for two more matches before being forced out with injury.
“Jordy has been wanting to play fullback for many years,” Campbell said.
“I definitely didn’t want to kick stones because both of us like playing that position, but we want to do what’s best for the team.
“(At) wing, you’re still out there, it’s not a bad position, I still love playing it, so I think it’s more made in the media about the difference in positions than actually at the club.”
Campbell, 26, said being able to play both positions would also enhance his chances of a Wallabies debut in July’s three-Test series against England.
“Being able to play multiple positions can only help. My focus for the last couple of weeks has been trying to do that,” he said.
“I’m very excited to be a part of this camp. (I’m) looking forward to getting some good feedback from the coaches and hopefully work on my game and be back here.
“I would’ve liked to be here sooner, but getting the nod now is exciting.”
Campbell’s period on the sidelines is set to last for at least another two weeks, but with the Reds having a bye this weekend, he’s hopeful of not missing too much football.
“Obviously, it’s a bit frustrating at the time but everyone has injuries,” he said.
“Breaking your hand, it’s only a short-term injury and we have a bye, so I’m trying to look it from that way and start to move forward rather than sulking and looking down on it.”