NSW Waratahs’ goal-kicking winger Peter Hewat is hoping that his dream of winning a first Wallaby Test cap will come true during November’s four-match tour of Europe.
Hewat admits he was "slightly disappointed" at not earning a call for the recent international campaign despite Australia being decimated by season-ending injuries to a large number of regular players.
Australia coach Eddie Jones failed to include Hewat in any of his squads even though the absence of quality backs such as Chris Latham, Wendell Sailor, Stirling Mortlock, Elton Flatley and Matt Giteau meant there were plenty of holes in the backline.
"I would love to play for the Wallabies," Hewat said.
"And I would love to make my debut on the spring tour (to Europe)."
Hewat, 27, would seem to have the credentials to step up to the international stage even though he was a late arrival in representative rugby.
His impact in last season’s Super 12, when his goalkicking helped to steer the Waratahs into the final against the Canterbury Crusaders, was remarkable in his rookie season.
Hewat won two Super 12 awards, the rookie of the series and the Tooheys New Medal which is voted for by rugby fans.
"I was a little disappointed this winter that the form I showed in Super 12 did not earn me a place in the national squad, especially with all the injuries," Hewat said.
"I played quite well in the Australia A team which, I believe, is seen as the development team for the Wallabies.
"But I am determined to work hard and prove my ability.
"I feel I need to improve in areas such as when I get into contact situations. I also need to become more robust in play."
But before he knows whether he is in the spring touring party, Hewat has an assignment at club level.
"The priority at the moment is getting Manly into the final (of the Sydney club competition)," he said.
"I want to win the Premiership. It will be Manly’s first since 1997," said the former Queenslander, who was coaxed to Sydney from the Brisbane club competition by Waratahs’ head coach Ewen McKenzie.
"I owe Ewen a great deal. I have just signed a three-year deal with the Waratahs and hopefully within that time we can win the Super 14 title."
