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Robinson relishes new surface

Robinson relishes new surface

Wales winger Harry Robinson is looking forward to showing what he can do on the new artificial pitch at Cardiff Arms Park.

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The 20-year-old speedster trained on the surface for the first time this week ahead of the Blues’ second pre-season game against Sale Sharks on Friday night. 

And with the new season around the corner, Robinson says he can’t wait for the competitive games to start.

When asked for his views on the new surface, he said: “We’ve had our first session and it felt pretty fast so fingers crossed it will be like that in games as well.

“Personally I feel it’s less taxing on the legs compared to grass. It feels like I could run on this all day if I’m honest.

“I can tell you it feels pretty quick and the boys were saying it’s solid under foot.”

The Blues are only the second side in the UK to implement a totally artificial pitch. They follow English side Saracens in doing so with regional boss Phil Davies hoping it will suit the expansive style he wants his side to play.

A quicker game should provide more opportunities for Robinson as well as the likes of Leigh Halfpenny and Alex Cuthbert.

Robinson added: “I played on the one at Saracens last year and I thought it was a revelation. The game was so fast and aesthetically pleasing for the crowd so hopefully this season we can have that type of game.

“That’s the way we want to play – fast, expansive rugby and this pitch should allow us to do that.

“It’s not going to be a pitch for big mauls. It’s going to be a fast, wide game which is perfect for me. You won’t get a muddy ball on this pitch so the boys are really looking forward to playing on it.”

After touring Japan with Wales over the summer, Robinson is determined to push on this season.

But with British & Irish Lions Cuthbert and George North as well as Eli Walker pushing for a wing spot, competition in the Welsh squad is fierce.

“Myself, Tom Williams, Chris Czekaj , Dan Fish, we’re all pushing for a place in the back three so getting in the Blues team is my number one priority at the moment,” said Robinson.

“Wales will come around when it comes around but for now the Blues is my main focus.

“I back Phil 100 per cent in his team choices. If he decides I should play one week and not play the next then I’m fully behind him. I have to take his decisions as they come.

“I feel ready both mentally and physically, I just want to give it 100 per cent. If I don’t make the Welsh squad, I don’t make the Welsh squad.

“I can’t have any qualms about that but I’ll be giving my all for the Blues first of all.”

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