Sharks utility Jack Bird wasn’t overwhelmed when he made his NRL debut earlier this month, and he plans to approach his sudden promotion to the starting line-up for VB Country in his representative debut this weekend the same way.
Bird was initially named on the bench for the Trent Barrett-coached team, but with Knights playmaker Jarrod Mullen ruled out, the 20-year-old has been promoted to halfback to partner captain James Maloney in the halves.
Bird told Sharks Radio he is honoured and excited to get his chance in senior representative football for the annual AAMI Country-City clash at Wagga Wagga on Sunday.
“I didn’t think I was going to get picked but I’m stoked and happy to be here,” Bird said.
"It’s just a step in my career and I can’t wait to get out there on Sunday.”
Bird says he is looking forward to the prospect of learning from experienced Roosters five-eighth James Maloney and Country coach Trent Barrett during the week-long camp.
“Trent played for Australia and New South Wales back in his day and he was a half as well so hopefully I can learn off him,” he said.
“And to partner up with Jimmy (Maloney), who’s played Origin … I’m sure I’ll learn a lot off those two this weekend and I can’t wait.”
The interview with Bird is now playing on Sharks Radio.
