Western Force back-rower Reed Prinsep has likened captain Jeremy Williams to All Blacks great Kieran Reed as they prepare to face the British & Irish Lions.
Williams is one of several Force stars expected to be named in the Wallabies' squad tomorrow to face Fiji, likely to be available for the Force's tour match at Optus Stadium on June 28.
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The second-rower is coming off a breakthrough season in Test Rugby, going from debutant to regular starter under Joe Schmidt.
Prinsep, a ten-cap Maori All Black, was full of praise for Williams and believes he has the same qualities as the legendary Crusader and Kiwi back-rower.
"'Reado' is obviously an athlete and explosive, but he has the smarts behind him as well. Jeremy is certainly of the same ilk from what I've seen these last couple of years," he told Rugby.com.au.
"For me, a lot of captains, when they get that role, they step up their game. They realise a big part of it is leading with actions and he is certainly doing that.
"Obviously young, but he's got the respect of the entire group. I think he's doing a great job and he's got a massive future ahead, both at the Force and the Wallabies.
"It's cool to see guys like that step up and take the game to the next level."
Prinsep is one of several Force players with experience playing against the Lions, featuring in a 31-draw with the Hurricanes in Wellington in 2017, alongside fellow Kiwis Matt Proctor [Maori All Blacks] and Atu Moli [Chiefs], who also played on that tour.
Fullback Kurtley Beale started for the Wallabies in 2013, while Sam Carter helped the ACT Brumbies to a rare victory during that tour.
"When we first got back together we went to Optus Stadium and we talked about our experience of the week of playing the Lions and everything that goes with it," Prinsep explained.
"It's certainly a lot bigger than you expect. The amount of people that come into the town, it's a buzz with activity.
"It's truly incredible and I'm so privileged to have a second opportunity to do so."
During his first Lions encounter, Prinsep came off the bench as the 'Canes trailed by 14 points before rallying to level the scores with less than ten minutes remaining.
Although it was a 'strange' feeling, it's a memory he'll cherish forever.
"I remember having a genuine opportunity to win it and take it. The confidence in the group, we were still in the fight after that Vaea Fifita try and the stimulation and excitement (was amazing)," he recalled.
"Playing in Super Rugby, you go to an opposition game, the crowds aren't quite the same. It's not the hostile environment that you're used to. They're just passionate about rugby and absolutely love it.
"[The draw] was a strange one. It almost feels like you've lost. There's no jubilation or excitement that comes with the win.
"...It's truly incredible and I'm so privileged to have a second opportunity to do so."
