Tom Banks has backed a bunch of ACT Brumbies debutants to fill the void left by their departed stars, revealing his desire to help the Super Rugby club step into a new era.
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The new-look Brumbies will put their faith in untested talent when they kick-off their season against the Queensland Reds at Canberra Stadium on Friday night.
Banks is preparing for his fourth season in Canberra and has been added to an extended leadership group to support new skipper Allan Alaalatoa.
The 25-year-old fullback has played 46 matches since making his debut for Queensland in 2015 and has made the Brumbies' No. 15 jersey his own in the past three years.
He's quickly become one of the senior members of Dan McKellar's squad following the post World Cup exodus from Australian Rugby, and says he's ready to embrace his leadership role.
"It's a bit of a step up but I'm still trying to play my natural role and I'll try to help the younger boys," Banks said.
"We've got a fair few debutants and some will get their first opportunity [on Friday]. Everyone is really excited and I can't wait to get out there.
"They've really taken it upon themselves and done a lot of work in the off-season.
"Especially our tens, they've been here all week watching vision and talking to coaches. They've really pushed forward."
MORE BRUMBIES NEWS
Noah Lolesio, Bayley Kuenzle and Reesjan Pasitoa have one of the biggest tasks out of the Brumbies' rookies as they prepare to step into the shoes of chief playmaker Christian Lealiifano.
The young trio had their first chance to impress Brumbies selectors in their pre-season trial matches against the Melbourne Rebels last week, and Lolesio looms as the starting flyhalf choice after a breakout performance.
The Brumbies beat Melbourne by 31 points, leaving Banks impressed with their defensive performance ahead of round one.
"In both games we looked to play our shape and the one thing which was really positive was our defence," Banks said.
"Our defence in the early rounds will be crucial to how we go.
"We've got to really drive that this week, if we work on our defence then our attack will come."
Queensland won both of their trial matches, thrashing Melbourne by 52-points in Gladstone before beating the NSW Waratahs 28-19.
Former Brumbies winger Henry Speight suited up for his first outing for Queensland against the Waratahs, gaining valuable minutes ahead of his return to the capital.
Queensland will be sweating on the fitness of several key forwards for round one including Wallaby Izack Rodda, JP Smith and Harry Hoopert, who missed both trials due to injury.
Banks has been impressed with the Reds' form and says the Brumbies will look to shutdown their marquee players.
"They've got some class players in the backs and in the forwards so we'll try to limit what they do," Banks said.
"We're trying to focus on our game and will look to exploit them when we see opportunities.
"The boys are just keen to get out there. We know what to expect but obviously with the heat it's something a bit different.
"We've looked at the forecast [but] nothing is new - we're playing in the same shape and the same opportunities will arise."
SUPER RUGBY ROUND ONE
Friday: ACT Brumbies v Queensland Reds at Canberra Stadium, 7.15pm.