Greg Holmes has been awarded a starting berth for this weekend’s clash against Los Pumas in Mendoza, Argentina, Saturday 25 July (Sunday 26 July at 8.30am AEST).
Thanks to his impressive performance last weekend against the Springboks in Brisbane, Holmes has been named in Head Coach Michael Cheika’s starting lineup.
“Leading into the game they just said they wanted me to make an impact, so that was my whole goal. We went on and I think the scrum went quite well and I’ve been rewarded with a starting spot, so I’m wrapped.”
At 32 years of age and with 13 caps to his name, Holmes is back in the Qantas Wallabies squad after an 8 year absence.
After an impressive season at the Reds, Holmes believes his effort both on and off the pitch within the Super Rugby competition, is what got him back on the Australian team.
“I focused on myself, trained hard and prepared my body well and you know I got my chances. I had a pretty good season with the Reds and the rewards were there. It boils down to hard work and getting your body right.”
With such a long time away from the Wallabies, Holmes thought his International Test playing days were behind him and he’s thrilled to be able to represent his country in 2015.
“It’s been such a long time since I’ve been able to play for Australia. It’s hard, you toil around in the Super Rugby and you’re dying to play for your country again and it’s just a great reward and I’m honoured to be back here playing.”
Holmes has confidence in the Australian team after a last gasp victory over the Springboks last Saturday.
With Queensland Reds teammate James Slipper and veteran Wallabies captain Stephen Moore alongside him, Holmes will no doubt be able to draw on their experiences playing together this weekend.
“I’ve had a really good season with Slips there this year at the Reds. I’ve played a lot with Stephen in his early days, it’s great to be back with those guys and I can’t wait.
The Wallabies take on Los Pumas this weekend in Mendoza, Argentina, with the game to be broadcast LIVE on both FOX SPORTS and Network TEN at 8:30am AEST.
