Former All Blacks star set to 'piss a few people off' as Force prepare for Highlanders showdown

Western Force lock Jeremy Thrush has vowed to "piss a few people off" during the Super Rugby Trans-Tasman competition, and he's keen to roll around again next year too.

The former All Blacks forward has been a key figure at the Force since joining them in 2018, with his leadership and competitive spirit helping drive the squad to greater heights.

The Force broke through for their maiden finals appearance in Super Rugby AU this year and the Perth-based franchise almost toppled the Chiefs last week in a 20-19 loss.

Only a missed conversion attempt from Domingo Miotti after the final siren denied the Force victory against the Chiefs, and they will be aiming to put in another strong display when they host the Highlanders on Friday night.

Thrush, who made more than 100 appearances for the Hurricanes, said he was loving taking on New Zealand sides again.

"Last week I did find it pretty fun to try to ruffle a few feathers of Kiwi boys back home," Thrush said.

"All I've got left in me really now is to be a bit niggly and piss a few people off.

"I'm going to try to do a bit more of that on the weekend.

"I found it all pretty enjoyable (taking on the Chiefs).

"That's when I play my best rugby when I'm enjoying it, and trying to take away the pressure of the games."

Thrush turned 36 last month but he doesn't want to retire just yet.

"I'll try to hold on for a little bit longer to the career. I'd like to have another go," Thrush said.

"I feel like once I don't contribute enough on the field then I'll look to maybe hang up the boots.

"The body is sometimes not willing but the mind is still willing to play... I still enjoy playing the game, there's still that hunger there, and I'm still smiling out there and enjoying it.

"If I'm still doing that, I still want to be playing for another season or two."

Former Wallabies centre Tevita Kuridrani will return for the Force after serving his three-week suspension for a dangerous tip tackle.

The Highlanders are set to welcome back All Blacks back-rower Shannon Frizell, who was left out of last week's 40-19 win over the Queensland Reds due to an alleged incident at a Dunedin bar.

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