The Ospreys hooker produced a stand-out performance in the Dragons’ North America tour opener against Canada and is set to be rewarded with his ninth cap against the USA on Saturday.
And with first-choice rival Matthew Rees away with the Lions in South Africa, the 17-stone powerhouse is determined to hold onto his place and stake a claim for a permanent Test spot this autumn.
Hibbard, 25, said: “At one time in Wales there was a shortage of hooker’s but now we’ve got a surplus of talent. I’m relishing the challenge and the competitive edge in the squad is improving everyone as players.
“With Matthew away, I want to definitely back up this win with another good performance next weekend and really challenge for the number two jersey next season.
“The autumn is a big goal for me already and I would love to be first-choice for Wales. That’s what I’m striving for and that’s what I want.
“I was happy with my ball carrying in general but I want to improve on every performance and I would have liked to have shown more against Canada. I will do everything to achieve that if selected against the USA.”
Hibbard, was one of ten players selected by caretaker coach Robin McBryde with less than ten caps to his name, impressed with his all-action display in the engine room at York University.
The Neath-born rising star will wait for Tuesday’s team announcement with interest ahead of the clash this Saturday in Chicago.
