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Hodgson braced for Aussie sledging

07/11/2005

Charlie Hodgson believes he will cope with a repeat of previously sledging when he lines up against Australia on Saturday.

The Sale Sharks stand-off will start against the Wallabies at Twickenham on Saturday and will be handed the kicking duties.

Hodgson was the subject of taunting and bating from the opposition in his country's defeat against Australia in the Cook Cup last year after faltering with his kicking.

The Lions star will turn 25 on Saturday and is expecting to be targeted again by the Aussies, yet believes he will handle everything that is thrown in his direction.

"The Aussies sledged me last year and I expect that again but with everything that's happened over the last year or so I feel I'm thicker-skinned. I'm a lot stronger mentally. I think I can perform better under pressure," said a defiant Hodgson.

"That sort of stuff does stick in your mind but it also makes you stronger and it just adds to the motivation that I can actually do it.

"To be honest I'm looking forward to hearing the first comment from the Aussies."

Hodgson, who will win his 12th consecutive cap on Saturday and is in some of the best form of his career, is hopeful he can make the number ten jersey his own.

"I do feel I am testing him rather than being the understudy with Jonny [Wilkinson] being the dead cert," said Hodgson.

"I feel a lot happier in this environment now. My run of games stems back to the summer tour of 2004. It has been a great learning experience for me and helps you perform better.

"Hopefully when the time comes for Andy Robinson to choose between us it will be a difficult selection."

Hodgson may be reassured by comments made by Australia forward George Smith, who is not expecting a repeat of last year's sledging on Saturday.

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