Gasnier: Bird is ready for number six
Kangaroos centre Mark Gasnier has no doubts that Greg Bird will be a more than adequate replacement for Darren Lockyer at pivot in Friday’s Centenary Test against New Zealand.
Lockyer ruled himself out of the historic clash last night because of an ongoing knee problem. Bird made a strong international debut in October’s 58-nil thrashing of the Kiwis, convincing Gasnier that he is the ideal replacement for the Australian skipper.
“His misfortune is another guy’s good fortune in Greg Bird,” Gasnier said. “He took it with two hands in Wellington and got the man of the match. He’s very excited”
Bird had been originally selected at lock, with Lockyer choosing not to race the clock in an effort to maintain team cohesion.
“Darren is very honest and upfront guy. He basically said he didn’t want to disrupt the team’s preparation,” Gasnier said. “He was really professional about it. It’s an acknowledgment to what the guy’s about and what he stands for.”
Gasnier has struggled this season with a leg injury, however with the Dragons having last week off, he’s convinced he has fully recovered.
“The calf’s fine. That week off helped. I’ll keep getting physio.”
| > | Bennett aura already rubbing off on Kiwis |
| > | Lockyer out of test |
| > | Hackett: They were pulling my legs |
| > | Souths hang on to get off mark |
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