Genia gives rookie nod

WILL Genia knows X-factor when he sees it and, to him, it’s written all over Wallabies rookie Jack Maddocks.

Maddocks is a bolter from the blue for Australia’s first Test of the year against Ireland on Saturday night, particularly considering he was more focused on cricket than rugby just over two years ago.

The 21-year-old speedster has been a revelation at fullback for the Melbourne Rebels this season, crossing for eight tries – the fourth most in the competition.

Watching on closely, marvelling at the talent and potential of the Sydney product, Rebels teammate Genia says Maddocks has truly blossomed since getting a shock call-up for last year’s spring tour. The youngster received Michael Cheika’s nod after a star turn in propelling Australia’s under-20s to a rare win over New Zealand a year before.

Test halfback Genia saw a kid pinching himself about being on a European tour but now he’s an assured performer.