Jac Morgan feels the quality of back row competition is getting the best out of the Lions squad as he sets his sights on Test selection
Morgan played the first 50 minutes wearing the No.6 jersey in Tuesday’s victory against First Nations & Pasifika XV, making nine tackles, as part of a back row also featuring Josh van der Flier and Henry Pollock
Tom Curry got the nod at openside for the first Test and produced a superb display, which Morgan acknowledged.
But the Welshman is hoping for his own chance to shine against the Wallabies in what remains of the series.
''The last week has been no different,” he said.
"I've had the opportunity and I just try and train and perform the best I can. It's a highly competitive position and Tom Curry was outstanding on Saturday.
"He's a great player and so is Josh (Van der Flier), so the competition is always high in that position and we try and get the best out of each other.''
''It would be a massive honour and a very proud moment to be selected.”
Morgan was originally one of two Welsh members of the Lions squad but quickly became the sole representative when compatriot Tomos Williams tore his hamstring early in the Tour.
That hasn’t stopped Welsh fans travelling to be part of the Sea of Red and Morgan is aware he is carrying their hopes and dreams when he steps on to the field in the famous jersey.
“It's hard to put into words," he said.
"I'm obviously chuffed and I'm trying to make everyone proud in a way.
"I've heard a couple of the cheers. It's great to have the support. There's a lot of Welsh out here."
Morgan has also been able to make use of the close contact with Scotland’s stars during his stint with the Lions.
Wales this week appointed Steve Tandy, formerly Scotland’s defence coach and the Lions defence coach on the 2021 Tour of South Africa, as their new head coach and the flanker has wasted no time tapping up his tourmates for their views.
"I've spoken to a lot of the Scottish boys and they've all said he's a great coach, but more than that he's a good bloke as well,” he added.
"They're all pretty gutted and said we're lucky so that speaks volumes in a way so we're looking forward to it."
