The Greyhound has got to grow
Elusive Brumbies fullback Jesse Mogg is caught in a catch-22 situation, where he might need to get bigger but it could come at a cost.
The 23-year-old's deceptive pace and lanky limbs have given him the endearing nickname of 'the Greyhound' and he has always seen his speed as one of his defining attributes.
However, if he was to get bigger it could compromise this.
He is aware that his size might count against him at Test level but he has been in such sublime form for the Brumbies this season and he feels that he has matured physically over the last year.
Mogg told lionsrugby.com: "I'm pretty happy around 90 kilos. I guess I can put a little bit more on, but at the same time speed is one of my greatest assets.
"I showed last year at some points in the competition I wasn't physically capable, but this year I've grown.
"I don't want to jeopardise my speed for a few extra kilos that I might not have to have.
"It's just the physicality of Test rugby he [Deans] is concerned about," said Mogg.
Even though he might not fit the Deans version of a fullback it is going to be difficult for the coach to leave him out after a number of dazzling displays at the back for the Brumbies in 2013.
He had a chat to Deans and knows that there is still a good chance he can claim one of those last six spots ahead of the three-Test series starting on June 11.
"I spoke to Robbie on the Sunday morning [before the Wallabies squad was announced]. He told me I was unsuccessful in making the 25, but to keep building my game and continue what I'm doing.
"As long as there are six spots open, there's always a chance to make it.
"I was disappointed in not making the 25 and if I don't make the final six, I'll be disappointed again, but I'm not going to let if affect my game. I'm not going to drop my head," Mogg added.
Mogg will run out for the Brumbies at Canberra Stadium on Friday when they take on the Hurricanes and he will hope that he can keep recreating the form that has helped the Brumbies lead the Australian Super Rugby conference.
"It will be really good to get back to Canberra Stadium. The last time we played there against the Crusaders we were a bit disappointing.
"To get back in front of our home crowd against quality opposition like the Hurricanes, who on their day can really turn it on, will be really good," Mogg mentioned.
