One, it could mean his side would be without one of their best for an extended period and, two, if that was the case his role at the club could change dramatically.

Both thoughts have now become reality.

Gordon was diagnosed with syndesmosis after the 41-7 defeat and will miss up to eight weeks as a result, with Grant elevated from super-sub to the Waratahs' starting side for Saturday's showdown with the Brumbies.

Some would view the promotion as daunting, but as a 27-year-old rookie Grant is showing every bit of the maturity he's developed over a long and successful Shute Shield career with Eastern Suburbs.

It's that career so far that's left many a pundit suggesting the snipey scrum-half was deserved of a Super Rugby crack some years ago.

"There's no need for me to change anything, really. What I've done so far has got me here," Grant said.

"Jake [Gordon] is obviously a big loss to the team but it's a good opportunity for me to play in some of the best players in the competition.

"I just want to do my job and that works best for me. I want to control the team and the pace of the game... I'll look to lead the boys around."

Oddsmakers have marked the Waratahs as a $6 chance to best the Brumbies on the road, with Grant suggesting his side's effort without the ball needs to improve after their underwhelming first-up loss.

"I think we just need to win the physical battle," he said.

"Last week we leaked too many points and we'll be able to control that if we improve our defence."

Grant's parents Jimmy and Suzie will be in the stands at GIO Stadium on Saturday as will his partner Hannah, his dad was on hand last week too as he made his debut with a 20-minute stint last weekend.

Not only did Grant speak about his looming debut in the Waratahs' No.9 jersey, he also mentioned Eastern Suburbs' annual trip to Orange.

The Beasties confirmed on Thursday they will bring a Shute Shield clash to the city for the sixth consecutive year, they'll take on Western Sydney on May 8 before Orange City and Emus' local derby clash.

Of course it's a chance for him to reconnect with his roots and play in front of a genuinely home crowd, but also for the likes of Dan Donato too, while former Beasties prop Archie Hall is now at Emus.

"I think everyone loves going out to Orange and playing," Grant said.

"It's a good way to get everyone together and have them travel out of the city and play in country areas. Especially the boys who come from the country... they get excited to play out there."

The Waratahs take on the Brumbies from 7.45pm on Saturday evening.