I’ll give Wallabies grunt, says Timani

LOPETI Timani reckons he can provide the Wallabies with the physicality they have been sorely missing and eventually become one of the world’s best in his position.

Timani, 26, who made five starts on last year’s European tour, will make his first Test appearance of the year in today’s clash with Italy.

He can make an impact at Suncorp Stadium because the Azzurri are missing their man at the back of the scrum, longtime captain Sergio Parisse.

Timani said it was tough watching last weekend’s defeat by Scotland because he could have made a difference with his imposing 123kg frame and incredible leg-driving power.

“We needed someone like myself in the middle of the field,” he said. “When I get my chance this week I’ll make sure I bring that physicality, aggression, ball-carrying, big tackles. “I can make a difference.” Timani, highly rated by coach Michael Cheika, has had a stop-start season because of injury and suspension and has not played a minute of Super Rugby this year at No.8, his favoured position, because Melbourne Rebels have needed him as second-row cover.

But he believes he is yet to reach his potential.

“I still have a lot of stuff to work and try and improve so I can be my best, not in Australia but around the world,” he said.

“I’m feeling confident. The only thing I need to work on is my fitness. [Cheika] wants physicality and aggression from me. It’s kind of my strength. I need to bring it to the game very week.”