George Gregan has played more rugby Tests for his country than anyone, but he admits presenting the Wallabies with their jerseys ahead of Saturday’s Test against Wales was a nerve-wracking experience.
The champion halfback, who now serves on the ARU board, emphasised the sacredness of the Wallabies jersey, but also attempted to lighten the mood for the players who are preparing to inflict a 3-0 clean sweep on the Welsh at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.
Gregan was then seen sharing a word with current No.9 Will Genia on the field prior to Friday’s Captain’s Run, advising the dynamic vice-captain to “just keep playing well”.
The 39-year-old said he hoped he’d made an impression on the playing group, and based on reality television show The Voice at least, Gregan felt he’d done his job.
“It’s like The Voice isn’t it … they were all spinning around and facing me. No one turned their back on me,” Gregan said.
“I’ve never been one for Churchillian speeches. There’s a bit of seriousness, but there’s always a bit of laughter with my speeches.
“It’s got a rich history the Wallabies jersey and the people that played in it.
“It’s hard work and there’s big moments like a Test match, but it’s a pretty great experience being in that Wallaby jersey … it goes pretty quickly so you’ve got to enjoy it and have a bit of laughter.”
Gregan said Genia had done well to still star at international level despite the heavy attention opposition teams place on his game.
The 139-cap Gregan said Genia would be crucial to the Wallabies over the coming 12 months and suspects the Reds halfback and Wales No.9 Mike Phillips will have another memorable duel on next year’s tour by the British and Irish Lions.
“People talk about him (Genia) a lot in the lead-up to games because of (his many attributes) and it takes a bit of pressure off people playing outside him,” said Gregan.
“He’s really important from the team’s perspective especially if they’re playing that positive up-tempo attacking game which they like to do.”