Rugby League convert Israel Folau is eyeing a showdown with the Lions.
The 23-year-old star switched codes to join New South Wales Waratahs ahead of the famous tourists’ visit in June and July.
Folau knows a massive challenge lies ahead and he is focussed of proving himself with the Waratahs.
But he admits he would “love” to face Warren Gatland’s men.
"Everyone would love to be a part of that big campaign, but my main focus is to try and get a spot in the team for the Waratahs first," said Folau.
"Hopefully if I am playing good rugby … we will see what happens. It would be nice to be a part of it, but I'm not looking that far ahead."
Folau is well into the transition from the 13-man code and is getting used to the intricacies of union.
"I feel pretty good since I started on day one with all the skills and stuff. (But) my body took a bit of time getting used to all the contact,” said Folau.
"I have missed it for a couple of years, just trying to get my body used to the hits again. That probably took a couple of weeks. That wasn't too bad."
"Now I am starting to feel a lot more comfortable in learning the plays and trying to get to play with a lot of the guys I don't really know.
"We have learned a few plays and (there are) not too many to learn which is good. We will probably take a few (new ones) into every game … we have been taking it pretty slow."
Waratahs coach Michael Cheika has been impressed with what he has seen of Folau in training and the question now is where to utilise the talent with a position in the back-three most likely.
"I am pretty open minded to whatever position 'Cheik' wants me to play in the back line, but at the moment I have been training at wing and at fullback,” added Folau.
"I certainly feel comfortable in those positions. I guess it is a different story when it's time to play, but we will see how we go."
