Rugby is a game that's constant. If you are not growing with it, you get left behind.

There is a difference going onto the pitch with No. 10 on your back rather than No. 12, and you need to have a clear understanding and be unbelievably prepared for what you are going into and what you will face.

Every time I kick a goal, I do the Joining Jack sign, which is two Js linked together for Jack's charity and for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

I am very cautious, and there are not too many decisions I've not discussed with my parents, whether that be about my career or away from the field.

I know that if I could really understand mental illness, then it would be appropriate to make a big career shift. I would become a therapist and a leader in terms of mental illness. But I'm not in the position.

I've been a good player my whole life and expect to continue to work hard and continue to do everything that I have done and try not to take any steps back. Try to stay the course and be the best player and the best teammate and hopefully the best leader I can be, and play as well as I can.

Especially with the signing of riders with climbing abilities and the new arrival of Tyler Hamilton, who has the strength and ability to become a great leader for the big tours. All in all, I feel this is a very complete team.

New leaders must also expect and manage setbacks. In post-revolutionary times, expectations are high, and the obstacles to meeting them are enormous.