Boyd excited by Kangaroos fullback role

Darius Boyd has revealed his excitement at the prospect of playing fullback for Australia for the first time since 2011. 

Boyd has only played in the number one jersey just three times for the Kangaroos, but with Billy Slater ruled out with a season ending injury, it offers the opportunity for the Broncos fullback to fill the void. 

The 28 year-old has already expressed his excitement at being able to play in the position for the Kangaroos and beat off some stiff competition for the role also. 

“I played a couple of games there when Billy was injured overseas,” Boyd told NRL.com.

“to get picked first up for the Anzac test at fullback makes me very happy and proud especially as you get older. There are a lot of quality players who are playing great like Tedesco (Tigers fullback James Tedesco) and Dugan (Dragons Josh Dugan).

“Greg (South Sydney No.1 Greg Inglis) is a freak of an athlete as well. I’m glad to just be in the team but to be playing fullback makes it extra special for me.”

There is a heavy Brisbane Broncos presence in both the Australian and New Zealand camps ahead of Friday’s game, and Boyd says he is looking forward to coming up against his teammates. 

“I think it’s always good to play against your mates because it makes it a bit more special,” Boyd said.

“I’m sure he’ll be fired up because he missed this week so he’ll be fresh and ready to go. I’m sure that [inside knowledge] will be a bit of an advantage for them. We’ve got five boys in the team so I’m sure he’ll know everyone’s weakenesses and what they can pick on. 

“But we’ve got a quality side so I’m sure we can overcome that.”