Julian Salvi

Back-rower Julian Salvi will make his first starting appearance for the CA Brumbies when he runs on against the Blues on Saturday night. Salvi replaces Stephen Hoiles, who has been ruled out of the Week Nine match after suffering a cheekbone injury against the Chiefs last weekend. Salvi, who re-signed with the CA Brumbies for another two years this week, has been exceptional off the bench in the side’s first seven matches this season. Brumby Jack caught up with Salvi prior to the side departing for New Zealand.

Brumby Jack: What are the main differences for you between starting a game and coming off the bench?
Julian Salvi: I think the main difference will be the nerves before the game. Preparation-wise I’ll still prepare the way I always do. It’s one of those things that you’re used to going on when people are tired and this week everyone’s fresh so the challenge is to perform well straight up when everyone’s fresh.
 
BJ: What can you tell us about the Blues side?
JS: They’ve got a very strong back row in Troy Flavell, [Jerome] Kaino and Daniel Braid, and they’re very strong and physical at the breakdown and I suppose that having two ‘7’s’ on the field will be beneficial for the Brumbies this weekend.

BJ: How pleasing was it to re-sign with the CA Brumbies for another two years this week?
JS: It was great to get that under the belt and finalised. I wanted to get it done sooner rather than later to get it out of the way and knowing my future for the next two years is great.

BJ: Has it been frustrating having to play behind George Smith?
JS: While I would love to be playing more football, what I’ve got from playing and training alongside George, and what I’ll continue learning from him over the next two years, has definitely helped me get to where I am today, and increased my knowledge of the game.