The Bayonne scrum-half may have two Grand Slams under his belt but he is still searching for a first win against the Wallabies.
That can all change in the next three weeks as Wales embark on a three-Test tour of Australia. Phillips is already Down Under, as part of a 16-man advance guard and the former Osprey insists the Dragons have to target the first match.
“The first Test is so important – nail that one and you get some momentum. We have to give everything we’ve got in Brisbane and then push on from there,” said Phillips.
“This series is a massive opportunity for us and we know how huge it would be if we could get a couple of wins. We have very high standards and everyone is driving each other on.
“It’s all about winning and we want to carry on in that way and move to the next level. We want to push on and get the next big scalp.
“We’re up against one of the best sides in the world and we respect their place in world rugby. But we are in good shape to hopefully challenge them over the three Tests in the next few weeks.”
Phillips, Wales’ second most capped scrum-half of all time behind Dwayne Peel, will be a key figure in the push for a Wallaby scalp.
And his personal battle against Australia ace Will Genia will be a key feature of the mouth-watering series. But Phillips reckons the whole Wallabies’ side is packed with firepower and insists the Welsh defence must be on song.
“Will Genia is a real catalyst for them and he dictates the way they play. He is a major threat for them and pulls the strings for them,” added Phillips.
“But throughout the side they have some wonderful ball-playing forwards and their backs can cut the line. It means our defence will have to be massive as they have threats all over the park.
“It really is an exciting challenge for us and it is one we want to match up to.
“We’ve all enjoyed the experience of winning in a Welsh jersey this year and coming on the back of a Grand Slam campaign this is a very exciting trip.”
