#Wallabies and Waratahs fullback Israel Folau looks set to continue playing with number 15 on his back rather than switching to outside centre.
In the off-season there has been talk that Folau could be moved to outside centre taking over from Adam Ashley-Cooper who has left to play in France.
Folau says that he has not held any in-depth discussions with coach Daryl Gibson about switching to fullback and that Rob Horne will most likely step into vacant spot.
Horne has played at international level at 13 so would be the most likely candidate to play outside the midfield combination of Bernard Foley and Kurtley Beale.
Folau has only recently returned to training with the Waratahs after undergoing ankle surgery and is expected to play in the Waratahs trial match on Friday against the Highlanders at Queenstown.
“At this stage I haven’t really spoken in-depth to Daryl positional wise, so I think at this stage No.15 is the most I’m most comfortable with,” Folau told The Daily Telegraph.
“I’ll probably play there for the first few games.”
“If I get that chance to have a go at No.13 I’ll be very excited about taking that opportunity, but at this stage I’m just worried about making sure my ankle is right and getting back to playing.”
Starting Beale and Horne in the centres could allow the Waratahs to field a pacy back three of Folau and new recruits Zac Guildford and Reece Robinson who have impressed in this year’s trial matches with the Brumbies and Chiefs.
“Watching the guys train, I know how Zac is as a player, you’ve seen what he can do on a field, he is an exciting player,” Folau said.
“And Reece has come across from league, he has done a lot in his short time here at the Waratahs.
“The guys can really see that potential, I thought he’s done really well in the first two trials, I’m sure Daryl saw that potential when he signed him so it’s exciting to see those guys part of the backline.
“I’m looking forward to linking up with those guys.”
Folau added that he was confident that his recovery had gone well and that he will be fully fit for the Super Rugby opening match against the Reds in Sydney.
