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'Mr Fixit' happy to go with flow
July 14, 2010
BIGGER isn't always better and size doesn't really matter according to Adam Ashley-Cooper, the surprise new heavyweight in the Wallabies back line.
In the weeks leading up to the Tri-Nations tournament, much has been made of the fact Australia's back line lacks the size of past years and is smaller than its two southern hemisphere rivals.
Last decade, Australian selectors had the luxury of choosing up to five 100-kilogram powerhouses, with full-back Chris Latham, wingers Wendell Sailor and Lote Tuqiri and centres Stirling Mortlock and Morgan Turinui at their disposal.
Conversely, none of the Wallaby backs tip the scales in three-digit territory, with Ashley-Cooper the leader at 96 kilograms.
''It was a little [surprising] because I never considered myself to be the biggest guy in the back line,'' he said.
''But I think that's just the way the game has changed, how the back line has evolved. I think … the way the game is going you've got to have that fitness and agility and speed rather than the sheer size.''
Ashley-Cooper's history with the Wallabies suggests he need never get too comfortable in one position. In the space of his first eight Tests, the Brumbies star had started matches for the Wallabies at full-back, both centre positions and on the wing.
He admitted to having ''no idea'' where he would line up for Australia's opening Tri-Nations match against South Africa in Brisbane on Saturday week.
The 26-year-old hasn't been hurt by his ''Mr Fixit'' tag, starting in 34 of his 40 Test appearances.
While relishing the value of his versatility, Ashley-Coper conceded changing positions at short notice was challenging and at times difficult. ''Wherever it is, it's always a challenge, just knowing what position you are playing that week,'' he said.
''It's just addressing each position at training to give you that extra preparation and confidence.''
AAP
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