ACT Brumbies breakout backrower Charlie Cale is eager to back up his incredible showing against the Rebels as he looks to replace idol Pete Samu in the number eight jersey.
Cale broke his way into the squad in 2023 but last Friday's performance caught the eyes of fans and pundits alike as he lit up AAMI Park in the 30-3 win.
Don't miss Super Round 2024 in Melbourne from March 1-3. Get your tickets now!
The number eight scored a double and stole several lineouts as they cruised to victory.
The 23-year-old, who like Nic White was recruited from Eastwood, picked the brain of former teammate Samu before stepping up to replace him after his departure to France.
“Pete was an idol so I took a lot out of his game," he told reporters.
“I was just trying to go in and play my own game, I was just happy to be there.
“It’s just good to get the win. The Rebels were playing off emotion so we knew it was going to be a big game
“To get down there and beat them, keeping them try-less was really good for us."
Cale will get the chance to shine once again when the Brumbies return to AAMI Park to face the Chiefs to conclude Super Round, with Stephen Larkham naming just one change to the starting side as Sefo Kautai starts.
“It’s obviously good to play (at AAMI Park) last week and get a feel for it," he added
“To head back down there this week, it definitely helps us."
Whilst he will go down there with a bigger profile, his Brumbies teammates are refusing to let it go to his head.
"How much has he been talking himself up? He scores a couple tries and he’s already on media,” lock Nick Frost said with a smile.
“It’s not really a long time coming, it’s good that he got his chance when Pete vacated the role. Charlie took his opportunity and played bloody well.
“He’s a pretty elusive and speedy backrower. He doesn’t hit too many breakdowns, but we’ll do the tight work for him if he keeps scoring those tries."
BRUMBIES (1-15): James Slipper, Lachlan Lonergan, Sosefo Kautai, Nick Frost, Tom Hooper, Rob Valetini, Luke Reimer, Charlie Cale, Ryan Lonergan (c), Noah Lolesio, Corey Toole, Ollie Sapsford, Len Ikitau, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright
RESERVES: Billy Pollard, Blake Schoupp, Rhys Van Nek, Cadeyrn Neville, Jahrome Brown, Harrison Goddard, Declan Meredith, Tamati Tua
