Josh Valentine

CA Brumbies-bound scrumhalf Josh Valentine is in Canberra this week ahead of the Wallabies first match of the Bundaberg Rum Series against Italy at Canberra Stadium on Saturday night. Six CA Brumbies have been selected in the side, excluding Valentine and Matt Giteau who will wear the ACT colours in 2010. Brumby Jack caught up with Valentine ahead of the Wallabies clash against Italy.

Brumby Jack: How did it feel to get back onto the field for the Wallabies against the Barbarians in Sydney last weekend?

Josh Valentine: While it wasn’t so much a Test match, it was good to put the green and gold on again. It’s been a few years and having had injuries and timing with other blokes being in the position, it’s a big thrill to be back in the squad.

BJ: How’s the week in Canberra been leading into Saturday’s Test against Italy?

JV: It’s been pretty cold. It’s obviously not summer here but we’ll be spending a fair few months down here through the summer so hopefully it’ll be a bit warmer then.

BJ: What are you expecting at Canberra Stadium on Saturday night?

JV: I’ve played a number of times at Canberra Stadium and I only got my first win there against the Brums this year – which was a big thrill for me as I hadn’t ever beaten the Brumbies before in any trial game or Super 14 match. They call it ‘The Fortress’ and it’s very hard for visiting teams to win there so I’m looking forward to seeing if we can continue that next season.

BJ: Looking towards next season, what was the attraction of coming to the CA Brumbies for 2010?

JV: Matt Giteau, I guess, was half the reason as well the playing group they have down there. I’d spoken to Friendy a fair bit before signing and just the way the organisation is run was very attractive too.