Belief key to a Rona revival

OUT of favour Wallabies back Curtis Rona says he needs to play with confidence to force himself back into Test rugby reckoning.

The NSW Waratahs centrewing was named in Michael Chieka’s training camp in early August and was widely considered a contender for the Wallabies’ starting outside centre spot after injuries to Samu Kerevi and Tevita Kuridrani. However, the three-time capped international was omitted from the squad for the opening Bledisloe Cup Test against New Zealand later in the month, with utility back Reece Hodge chosen at No.13.

Rona remained on the outer for the next three Rugby Championship games and could still be there later this week, when the squad for games away to South Africa and Argentina is announced.

The 26-year-old will turn out for the Sydney Rays in an intrastate derby against NSW Country in Sydney today.

Asked what felt he needed to do to force his way back into Wallabies contention, Rona said: “I think I’ve just got to play with confidence.

“I haven’t spoken to him (Cheika) too much about where I stand, so all I can do is think about playing and the selection will figure out itself.”