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THE Western Force may be on the brink of big signing, but teenage backrower David Pocock could be on the verge of something even bigger.
That is the view of Western Force coach John Mitchell as Matt Giteau prepares to commit his immediate future to Perth, and Pocock continues his remarkable rise to prominence amongst Australian flankers.
Despite his tender years, Pocock was one of the shining lights in the Force's entertaining 29-24 loss to the Crusaders, scoring the first try of the game and his short career.
Playing opposite All Black skipper Richie McCaw, Pocock's influence in contact and on the floor was immense, earning man-of-the-match honours in a high quality spectacle.
Mitchell said while Giteau's imminent two year deal was a huge boost, he also tipped Pocock for a big future with higher honours.
"He is a phenomenal athlete, and he is just so focused. He is understanding the scenarios that he's in, and he learns very quickly and adapts very quickly,'' Mitchell said.
"He is built for that position. You know before a game that it is one position where you are going to get a massive hammering.
"I think he has got an international rugby future, but he has also got a lot of competition too.
"They are really lucky in Australia that we have got three quality opensides ... they are blessed in the country, and it is just how the Wallaby selectors create the best mix.''
With Giteau declining to put himself on the market, and consistently saying he is happy in Perth, the news he is set to sign a new deal this week was hardly a surprise.
But it was no less pleasing for Mitchell, who has made the superstar his vice-captain this season in a clear sign he sees him as a future on-field leader.
"It is great with Nathan (Sharpe) our captain and Matt - they are vital team members. The greater continuity we can have with senior players and other players within the group the better.
"And the investment is going to bring reward to us as an organisation.''
Although admitting his side blew their chance for a win against Super 14's benchmark side,
Mitchell also praised the performance of Ryan Cross who did himself no harm with an eye-catching display in front of the future Wallaby coach.
"He is playing very good rugby at the moment, and that is great for him - shows that he is adapting to the game very well,'' Mitchell said.
"He is in great condition, in a good space upstairs and really believes in himself.''
Despite the upsides, the Force still find themselves on the road again on the back of a loss, with the Blues and Highlanders packed into a nine-day tour of New Zealand, leaving on Thursday.
"In terms of the standard of our play it certainly raised this week, and we will take that into next week's game,'' Sharpe said.
"We will learn from that and take it in against the Blues.''
AAP
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"Remember lads, rugby is a team game; all 14 of you make sure you pass the ball to Giteau." 
