Hemel Stags back rower Matt Mizzi is brimming with confidence ahead of Malta’s game against Lancashire on Sunday at the Tedesco Stadium.

The Wests Tigers’ junior said nerves were on hand before Malta takes on the strongest Rugby League opposition the country has ever seen on its shores.

“There are nerves for sure. This will be the first time I have represented Malta so the pressure is there,” said Mizzi, as he arrived in Malta for the first time.

“All I want to do is play to the best of my ability and not let my team down.”

Mizzi, highlighting Sunday will be a high point in his career, set a precedent in pre-match talk, commenting the Maltese will be strong on the day.

“I don’t think they’ll have anything to offer that we won’t be able to handle,” said the 20-year-old debutant.

“I was born and bred in Australia, playing in a country which boasts the best Rugby League system in the world.

“And I’ve just completed a season in the UK. I’ve experienced both styles (northern and southern hemisphere) of play,” he said of his rugby upbringing.

“I can’t wait for Sunday. I’ve played representative footy for the Wests Tigers at a lower level and that has been the highlight of my life. But this Sunday, that will take over,”

Lancashire Rugby League’s 40-man touring party takes on the Maltese national team on Sunday at 7 p.m.