World Cup hopeful Nic White says he's ready to shoulder the load of being a Super Rugby captain if required, but admits he's still trying to find a balance between unbridled passion and on-field composure.
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The fiery scrumhalf also conceded his confidence took a hit after criticism of a poorly executed kick that contributed to the Wallabies' Bledisloe Cup defeat in September.
But the newly appointed ACT Brumbies vice-captain insists he will use experience to make him a better player this year as he chases his goal of a Super Rugby title and forcing his way back into the Wallabies No. 9 jersey.
White will take on extra responsibility after joining David Pocock and captain Stephen Moore in the Brumbies' leadership group.
Moore and Pocock are making their comebacks from knee reconstructions, with White looming to take the reins if Moore isn't ready to play in round one and to ease any pressure on Pocock.
"I think I am ready to [step up], but I think [Moore] will be ready for round one, he's in good shape and Poey is in super condition," White said.
"They're the ones with the experience ... I see my role as simple and supporting them. But I feel comfortable with the responsibility.
"I trust [Stephen Larkham] and asked him if he was sure [he wanted me to be vice-captain]. I'm still trying to find a balance in my game and at times I get it wrong.
"I wasn't sure if I would be the right guy to get messages across at times ... but it's something I'm getting better at and I have to listen to Bernie. I have to drive standards on the field."
White has enjoyed a stellar three years with the Brumbies, rising from unknown scrumhalf to the Wallabies' starting team last year.
He lost his place in the game-day squad after Ewen McKenzie was sacked and his role in the Wallabies' loss to New Zealand in Brisbane.
The Wallabies were leading the All Blacks in the dying minutes when White decided to kick the ball out rather than keep the ball in hand and kill the game.
The Wallabies missed crucial tackles and the All Blacks scored a converted try after the siren to snatch victory, with White unfairly lumped with the blame.
"Mentally it can be tough, but that's part of the responsibility and pressure of playing for your country," White said.
"If you make a wrong decision and it contributes to losing the game, you've got to cop that flak. I feel like I'm my own worst enemy in those sorts of things.
"I recognise mistakes and poor options ... you've got to work at the small things and it just makes you stronger."
White admits the spring tour of Europe was tough, losing his place to Nick Phipps and Will Genia, but he fought his way back into the rotation for the last Test against England.
Larkham is adamant White can force his way back into the Wallabies' starting XV and will embrace the challenge of being a leader.
"Nic is your typical half-back, he certainly drives standards on the field and I see him as one of the best half-backs in the world," Larkham said.
"There's going to be a lot of competition for half-back spots in Australia ... I think the team will be picked on Super Rugby form. Nic is very driven, he's driven to get back into the Wallabies and he's come back super focused."
BRUMBIES TRIALS
January 23: Western Force v ACT Brumbies at McGillivray Oval, Perth, 8pm.
January 31: Brumbies v Otago Highlanders in Wagga, 7pm.
* The Brumbies will take a supporters' bus to the trial match in Wagga, which will leave Canberra at 3pm and return at midnight. Seats on the bus start from $40. For more information email J.Saunders@brumbies.com.au or call 6283 8516.
