HEAD coach Carl Hogg is disappointed to not have influential scrum-half Francois Hougaard for the club’s opening fixtures but insists Jonny Arr is ready to step up to the number nine role.
Hougaard has been called up to South Africa’s 28-man squad for their two Rugby Championship Tests against Australia and New Zealand this month, leaving Arr, who missed the second half of Warriors’ 2015/16 campaign due to a knee injury, to fill the void.
Worcester-born scrum-half Arr played 62 minutes of Warriors’ defeat to Saracens last Saturday, helping to hold the European champions to just six points going into the interval.
Hogg has praised Arr’s efforts and insists, despite his ‘superstar’ status, Hougaard will have to fight for his number nine jersey on return from international duties.
“Hougaard being away with South Africa is part and parcel of being a successful side going forward. We want to attract international players, whether that’s from the Southern Hemisphere or by bringing them up through our own system,” said Hogg.
“It’s disappointing because Francois had such a positive influence on the group last year, making an impact both on and off the pitch.
“But Jonny Arr is fit and healthy and ready to step up. We’re very fortunate to have someone of his quality available to us when other players aren’t.
“If we see some solid performances at scrum-half in these opening few games, Hougaard won’t be guaranteed his jersey on return. This group is all about who’s committed and prepared to work hard for the team. Jonny Arr epitomises that.
“This is his club as he’s risen through the ranks. He wears his heart on his sleeve and is a warrior through and through. For me, it’s phenomenal to have someone of his passion and ability at scrum-half.
“When Francois comes back he’ll have to compete for his place in the team. It’s not about reputation or superstars, it’s about contributing to Worcester Warriors to help us rise up this league.
“Francois knows this and like any good player, he welcomes competition.”