Mitchell arrives into the unknown

Tuesday 08th July 2008

Versatile outside back Drew Mitchell admits he didn't know what to expect when he walked into Robbie Deans' Wallaby camp on Tuesday morning, having been rushed back into the 30-man squad for the Tri-Nations series.

Having been an integral part of Australia's Rugby World Cup campaign, Mitchell was unavailable for selection for the Wallabies' three warm-up Tests against Ireland and France as he battled to overcome an ankle injury.

But as expected, the 24-year-old returns to the Test scene after successful outings for Australia A in the Pacific Nations Cup.

It's not yet known what role the 21-times capped Wallaby will play in the green and gold under Deans.

Mitchell switched between wing and full-back in his three appearances with the Australia A.

And with specialist full-back Cameron Shepherd now sidelined for several months with a broken leg suffered against France on Saturday, Mitchell's recent experience in the number fifteen jersey could work in his favour at the selection table.

"I've played a couple of Tests there at full-back before and obviously hearing the news and also watching what happened to Cameron was disappointing," Mitchell told Sportal.

"Not only from a Wallabies perspective but also he's a good friend of mine so you certainly don't want to see someone go through and injury like that."

"But I guess there's now an opportunity there and if called upon I'd be thrilled to play."

"Having played two full games (at full-back) I'm comfortable there now and also just having played with the guys around you certainly makes you feel more comfortable as well."

"I've played with everyone in the Wallabies before, albeit with the exception of just a couple, but I'd certainly be comfortable there."

Deans' arrival with the Wallabies has shaken things up, and the Western Force star has two weeks to get to familiar with the new coaching techniques.

"In all honesty I haven't even met most of the coaching staff," Mitchell added.

"So I guess that's something that once I start training with the guys and get a feel for what's happening, I'll have more of an understanding.

"I guess watching from the outside there is more of an attacking intent out there at the moment so hopefully that suits my game."

With competition for spots in the line-up at an all-time high, the second leading try-scorer (seven) in last year's World Cup admits having doubts over his short-term Wallabies prospects.

"I guess there's always that doubt that comes into mind and I guess it's probably enhanced by how well guys who have got their opportunity have been going," said Mitchell.

"Peter (Hynes) obviously has been going really well in every game he's played and obviously Lachlan Turner got his opportunity on the weekend as well.

"There's always that sort of doubt and on top of that Digby Ioane played really well within the Australia A program so I'm certainly thrilled to get that opportunity to be involved in the squad."