Fit again, he has averaged 77 minutes in playing all 12 games this year.

Last Saturday he was again the senior partner, with fellow international Kane Douglas benched in favour of 19-year-old Harry Hockings.

In a side full of rookies Rodda has emerged as a leader despite his tender age and Thorn believes that shouldn't be underestimated.

"He's one of our experienced forwards, but he's 21," Thorn said.

"He's doing an alright job, isn't he, to play pretty much 80 minutes each week."

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Rodda is one of just five Reds to play every game this season as veterans have fallen around him for a variety of reasons.

And, with just this Saturday's clash with the NSW Waratahs to play before the international window opens, the Ipswich Grammar product can't deny a Test berth is on his mind.

In March Rodda was wheeled out in full Wallabies kit at Suncorp Stadium, showing off his moves amongst a quartet of Irish dancers to promote the three-Test series.

"It has crossed my mind, but I'm mainly just trying to focus on my form for the Reds," Roodda said.

"I just want to be the best player I can for this team."

Rodda's teammate and hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa and returning winner Izaia Perese were two others to impress in the Reds' frustrating 18-15 loss to the Highlanders on Saturday.

Cheika will announce his Wallabies squad in Brisbane on Wednesday night.

AAP