Rogers set to make the grade
January 9, 2002

The NSW Waratahs' big money recruit Mat Rogers is set to make his national debut in three weeks alongside Wendell Sailor as part of the Australian sevens side for the Brisbane Grand Prix tournament.

The former Queensland State-of-Origin and Kangaroo teammates will be joined by dynamic Wallaby backrower Phil Waugh for the event being staged at Ballymore from February 1-3.

"It was a bit of a surprise, a bit of a shock," commented Rogers to the Daily Telegraph about his selection.

"Obviously it is a long way from the 15-a-side Australian side, but it is a start. It's always a great honour to play for your country, I just have to wrap my head around it now."

"I have to try and concentrate on what I am doing now first and foremost with the Waratahs. Primarily the 15-a-side game for me is the priority at the moment," he added.

The chance to play alongside fellow league recruit Sailor again is a bonus for Rogers.

"I think Wendell will be a huge success in sevens as big and fast as he is," Rogers commented.

Rogers' selection means he will miss the Waratahs' first trial against NSW Country at Wollongong on February 2.

"It is a severe disruption for us," admitted coach Bob Dwyer, who wanted Rogers to play in two of the Waratahs' three trial games prior to the start of the Super 12.

"We would prefer him not to play in two consecutive games six games apart so close to the start of the Super 12, but that may be forced upon us," Dwyer said.

Dwyer also declared that the Waratahs certainly wouldn't trial Rogers in more than two positions.

"We would probably only like to trial him in one, what position that is we will have to work out," he said.

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