Gareth Anscombe
Cardiff Blues’ new signing Gareth Anscombe is keen to impress Wales coach Warren Gatland and force his way into the Welsh Six Nations squad.
The Welsh qualified junior All Black made his debut for the Blues last weekend and was the shining light in their 28-13 defeat to Edinburgh at Murrayfield.
The utlity back is determined to muscle his way into the Wales fold for the Six Nations by steering his new side to victories against European Cup Pool One qualification rivals London Irish in their back-to-back clashes next month.
“I’m a pretty driven guy and now that I’m over here it’s the goal to play for Wales. So, I guess the next step may be the Six Nations.
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“There are a few classy No.10s and outside backs in that Welsh team, so I know I need to play well at club level. But I’m definitely keen to get amongst that group and the squad for the Six Nations,” he said.
Whilst his focus is on impressing as a flyhalf, Anscombe said he would be happy to play anywhere in the backline for Wales.
“I want to play at No.10 and be effective here as a flyhalf, but if I get a chance to get on the field by playing fullback then I’m not going to turn that down, either,” he said.
Anscombe heeded the advice of two Cardiff Blues legends who also started their careers on New Zealand’s North island.
Xavier Rush and Paul Tito played a key role in the region’s European Challenge Cup victory back in 2010, and Anscombe is hoping a similar level of success can boost his international chances.
“Xavier was our forwards coach at Auckland and we had a few coffees where he spoke very highly about Cardiff.
“I also spoke to Paul. I also know Jonah Lomu came here for a while a few years ago, so I’m well aware of the place. They had some success when Kiwis were here, so hopefully I can bring some success as well,” he added.