Wallabies flyhalf Bernard Foley says he would be more than happy to start alongside Kurtley Beale in the June Tests.
Foley is one of the few Super Rugby backs who seems to have his Test spot sewn up ahead of the June series and his relationship with Kurtley Beale has been fruitful in recent seasons.
With Matt Giteau unlikely to return to Australia for the June series, the starting inside centre spot is seemingly up for grabs.
Beale earlier this week indicated his desire to lock down a starting Test spot and Foley said his clubmate would be valuable wherever he played for the Wallabies.
“I love playing with a guy like KB, he’s infectious energy his infectious attitude and just the excitement he shows when he’s near the ball is great to play off and play with.
“I really like interacting with him on the field and I think he’s going to have a crucial part to play in this Wallabies side.
“You saw how effective he was in the World Cup when he had his opportunity and how well he’s done playing at inside centre for the Waratahs over the last couple of years.
“I’m sure that comes down to the coaches and their selections and preference but a guy like him is always a great asset in our side.”
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has spoken often of picking combinations rather than individuals when discussing Test selection and Foley said it would be easier to grow with a familiar face.
“You do need those combinations, you can’t expect to go in and click straight away with some guy you haven’t really played with,” he said.
“In saying that, there’s a lot of quality players in Australian Rugby at the moment and even overseas that Cheik can call upon.
“It’d be great to build these relationships with the likes of Nick Phipps and Kurtley and that's something I’d love to build on.
“But the coaches that’s their job I suppose is to pick the right squad and whoever they pick will give it a red hot crack.”
Foley admitted the mystery of which players from overseas would be in contention for the Wallabies adds an interesting element to team selection.
“It probably adds a bit of extra spice and it’s great to have the experience of the older guys who have played in different comps around the world and are probably pretty familiar with players from other teams,” he said.
“It is a great aspect that they can do it.
“In saying that it‘s good for the Super Rugby guys to get that, see that progression and that growth into the national side as well.”
