This year, David Pocock is aware of the need to balance his performance while leading Western Force.
Considered a potential future captain for the Wallabies, Pocock has stepped into the leadership role of Western Force, taking over from the original captain and second-rower Nathan Sharpe. Often hailed as the world’s premier openside flanker, Pocock’s leadership will be crucial for the Force’s competitiveness in the Super Rugby this season.
“It presents a new challenge, but the emphasis is on our teamwork,” Pocock expressed in Canberra before the Force’s inaugural match against the Brumbies on Friday night.
“The critical aspect is to maintain strong individual performances.
“Being captain involves certain game-management responsibilities, yet we have several seasoned players, and much of the accountability will be distributed among the team.”
A vital element for Pocock’s impact in the game is his prowess at the breakdown. With new Brumbies coach Jake White, who led the Springboks to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, it’s clear from his selection of the backrow that he plans to handle Pocock through a physical, South African approach.
Rather than using a “fetcher” like Michael Hooper to contest with Pocock at the breakdown, White has chosen the larger and more robust Ita Vaea to wear the No 7 jersey.
To prevent Pocock from being effective at the breakdown, the strategy is to consistently clear him out, which is exactly what the formidable Brumbies backrow of captain Ben Mowen, blindside flanker Peter Kimlin, and Vaea intends to do.
“Pocock is a dominant, world-class seven at the breakdown,” Mowen acknowledged.
“We understand his capabilities, but if we concentrate on the finer details of our breakdown tasks, we’re confident we’ll achieve the results we desire.
“Allowing him freedom will lead to us being severely punished.”
White has infused aspects of the Springboks’ game style into the Brumbies, signifying a shift towards a more forward-focused strategy than before.
“I certainly feel that our forward pack has adopted a more aggressive style in the two pre-season games (against the Brumbies and the Queensland Reds),” Mowen stated.
“I suppose this can be linked to Jake’s South African influence, but Laurie Fisher (forwards coach) also plays a significant role, having returned from Europe where they favor a forward-oriented game. The focus will be on laying a solid foundation first, with the backs adding the final touches.”
In the Force’s 26-0 defeat to the Brumbies during a trial match in Darwin a few weeks ago, Pocock observed their new approach. “From what I saw in the trials, Jake has succeeded in transforming the Brumbies,” Pocock remarked.
“They have established a solid structure and a clear understanding of their game plan. In those trial matches, they exhibited a different style, concentrating on field position. This is no surprise; it’s what has brought Jake success previously. It’s effective.”
While the Force will boast eight Wallabies compared to the Brumbies’ two, Pocock remains cautious regarding their unpredictability.
“They have numerous players who are familiar with their system but haven’t yet had a chance in Super Rugby,” Pocock noted. “They’ll be eager to establish their presence.”
“We anticipate a highly motivated Brumbies team, one that is well-prepared.”
by Buford Balony
