Cipriani: Bring on Beale and O’Connor

MELBOURNE REBELS pivot Danny Cipriani cannot wait to play alongside with new recruits Kurtley Beale and James O’Connor next year.

The Wallabies pair will join the franchise ahead of the Super Rugby season after transferring from the Waratahs and Western Force respectively.

“We spoke about playing together before they'd even signed so it's something I'm really looking forward to; they're two of the best players in the world,” Cipriani told AAP.

“Having them here raises the bar for everyone and I think it will make everyone realise the full potential that we have.”

He will get the chance to face off against O’Connor when the UK Barbarians play the Wallabies at Twickenham on November 26. Beale will miss the match after suffering a hamstring injury during the Rugby World Cup.

“I played with the Barbarians last year and played well. This year against Australia at Twickenham, it's exciting times and I'm very much looking forward to it. It's a great opportunity for me,” says Cipriani.

There was speculation earlier this season that Cipriani would leave the Rebels following a number of off-field misdemeanours which saw him fall foul of the team’s management and players.

However, he has decided to stay on with last year’s wooden spooners improve on their three-win, 13-loss record.

Cipriani believes the team is in good shape for 2012.

“There are still a few experienced guys who are going to benefit us, but there's a real buzz and a brightness to the side which hopefully will put us in good stead,” he says.