Hewat says he wants to take on more leadership responsibilties

London Irish full-back Peter Hewat thinks the Experimental Law Variations can work to the Exiles' advantage.

ELVs have been brought in this season in the hope of producing a more exciting style of rugby in England.

And Hewat told BBC Radio Berkshire the new laws could help their counter-attacking game.

"There's a lot of kicking and chances to counter-attack. With wingers like Topsy Ojo and Sailosi Tagicakibau, it works to your advantage," he said.

"You've got to pick your times, but it's good to have that sort of speed outside me.

I think last year it took me a while to settle in and I probably put too much pressure on myself. Peter Hewat

"There probably is a lot of ping pong where you can't kick the ball out on the full unless you're in the 22.

"But tactical kicking is even more important - you have to try to corner your opposition until they have a bad kick or you get a turnover. That's something we've been working hard on over the pre-season."

With injuries to Shane Geraghty and Mike Catt, Hewat may be called on to cover the fly-half position - something he says he is happy to do.

"I've been told by my coaches and the crew to get up there whenever I can.

"In the pre-season I was getting a bit of a run at 10 and I can direct more at 10 and I have to direct the forwards around as well, so I enjoy my time there.

Hewat was top-scorer in his first season with the Exiles

"But I know we've got a couple of young guys coming through, like Eoghan Hickey and Shane Geraghty and the 'old man' will be there still fighting for the spot."

Hewat has now been with London Irish for almost a year and he said he now feels very much at home.

"I'm part of the furniture now and it's just like this is home and feeling really settled and relaxed.

"I think last year it took me a while to settle in and I probably put too much pressure on myself.

"Being the new guy I wanted to impress rather than just do my job. Hopefully my performances will speak for themselves."