Laffranchi ready for Test challenge
April 29, 2008
COUNTRY workhorse Anthony Laffranchi said he was happy to play 320 minutes of football in just seven days after learning he will be named as Australia's 18th man.
The Gold Coast backrower admitted he was disappointed with his non-selection in the Centenary Test team but now is just one injury away from playing against New Zealand on May 9.
The prospect of playing three games in a week holds no fears for the NRL ironman who has made 89 hit-ups in just seven games for the Gold Coast.
"I'd play five games in five days if it meant getting the opportunity to play for Australia," Laffranchi said.
"Obviously I was disappointed on Sunday night but the selectors have their own opinions. They went the other way and it has just made me hungrier."
The 17 named in the Kangaroos side on Sunday night still have to make it through club matches this weekend.
"I really would love to see how Ricky gets an Australian team prepared (and) I would love to be a part of it," Laffranchi said.
"But right now I am focused on doing my job for Country this weekend."
Laffranchi said he will have no problem moving up to the front row on Friday night for the WIN Stadium clash.
"I am in tight for the Titans and it is a yardage game," Laffranchi said. "I still have the second-phase game and I think that is what Laurie Daley is looking at. I am excited about the challenge ahead and I want to get my hands on that Blues jumper."