Frisby relies on connection with Cooper
VINCE RUGARI QUEENSLAND Reds halfback Nick Frisby is hopeful a good season next to Quade Cooper could be his ticket to a permanent Wallabies spot.
Frisby has signed a twoyear contract with the Super Rugby franchise that will keep him at Ballymore until the end of 2019.
The 24-year-old had a breakout season last year as he established himself as the Reds’ first-choice No.9, while also making his debut for Australia. But the return of fiveeighth Cooper, who shares Frisby’s penchant for “off the cuff” play, could mean even bigger things on the horizon.
Where possible, Wallabies coach Michael Cheika likes to bring pre-existing combinations into the Test team.
Frisby is aware of what could be around the corner if they can be the catalyst for Queensland’s Super Rugby improvement – particularly with France-based Will Genia not always available, and Nick Phipps reportedly under pressure to keep his starting position for the NSW Waratahs.
“Having Quade in is a massive bonus for the whole team but, for me personally, to get to work side-by-side with him, week-in, week-out and really try to hone that combination together, is going to be beneficial for both of us,” Frisby said yesterday.
“The beauty of our squad is we’ve got a lot of guys pushing for spots now. It’s a really competitive environment which I think will push a lot of our guys towards international selection this year.
“We haven’t spoken about it to that extent, but our focus is definitely on building a combination and working well together.”
The early signs are good for the Reds after winning their final pre-season trial 32-13 on Tuesday against the Melbourne Rebels.
Queensland’s backline play was as slick as it has been for years, with Cooper, Samu Kerevi, Duncan Paia’aua and Karmichael Hunt impressive.
“It’s very easy knowing all you have to do is get there and shift the ball on,” Frisby said.
“We’re not getting too carried away, it is a trial game.”
The Reds open their Super Rugby season on Friday night at home against the Sharks.