Western Force prop Tom Robertson is eager to test himself against some of his best mates, knowing a strong performance against the NSW Waratahs will leave the perfect impression before next week's Wallaby camp.
Saturday's clash at Allianz Stadium will see the 28-year-old face off against his old side, with both teams desperate for victory after slow starts to the season
Robertson debuted for the Waratahs in 2016 before making the move west at the end of 2020, hungry to grab bragging rights after a pair of narrow losses in 2022.
“It’s not an enemy, it’s more of a friendly rivalry. Some of my best mates are still in the team duo it makes it more special on the day,” Robertson said to reporters.
“I definitely want to have bragging rights for the rest of the year. It doesn’t make it any less important of a game.”
This includes Waratahs prop Harry Johnson-Holmes, with both players reflecting on their history.
“He’s a good man but it’s always good to go head-to-head with him,” Johnson-Holmes said.
“We did plenty of battling here at the ‘Tahs and it’s probably a lot easier now he’s in another jersey now. ‘Throbba’ is a good player so it’d be nice to get some results against him.
“I grew up playing Sydney Uni with him. I’ve played against him for a couple years now and it’s always a great rivalry and he’s a great player,” Robertson responded
“I’m sure he’s disappointed not to be picked in the squad so I’m sure he’ll be aiming to have a big game on Saturday.”
Robertson was the lone player included from the Force in Eddie Jones' 33-player squad for next week's first training camp under the new coach.
Hooker Folau Fainga'a was acknowledged as part of a 'Not considered for selection due to injury' list alongside lock Izack Rodda, still recovering from a foot injury.
“It was great to be named in the squad under Eddie but in saying that, it’s just a squad and the first of the year so there’s still a lot of Rugby to be played," Robertson added.
“I know I’ve got to keep playing well to stay in the squad for the rest of the year. Hopefully, if the Force get a few more wins, we can get more players in that squad and really looking forward to what Eddie has to say at next week’s camp.
“…You don’t want to be leaving it until the camp to make a good impression. We want to set a good impression with a win on Saturday night. I think the best way to put the best foot forward is to start getting some wins and that starts with the Waratahs.”
