WHAT makes Greater Western Sydney big man Shane Mumford one of the best ruckmen in the competition? 

Melbourne's Mark Jamar has given an insight into what separates the 199cm, 108kg big man from the pack ahead of their meeting in Canberra on Saturday.

"He's got the complete package. He can go forward and take a mark. His ruckwork is exceptional because he's so strong and he's big and he can also jump," Jamar told AFL.com.au.

"His second efforts have stuck out most of his career – his follow up work is first-rate."

Mumford earned plaudits after round one for his accomplished performance in the Giants' nine-point win over St Kilda. His deft ruckwork, in particular his connection with midfielder Dylan Shiel, was noted as a key factor in the narrow victory.

Jamar admires Mumford for the way he attacks the ruck craft with a sense of aggression and it seems as though the respect is mutual.

"I've got a very big task ahead of me, he's one of the better ruckmen in the competition and an All Australian in the past. I love the challenge and that's what it'll be, a big challenge for us," Mumford said.

"He rucks a lot more like me, so it's going to be like two bulls going at it, locking horns, and away we go." 

Jamar was similarly instrumental, especially in the first half, in the club's 26-point breakthrough round one win against Gold Coast. 

The 31-year-old set the tone early in the game with his bullocking work around the contest against younger Suns opponents in Zac Smith, 25, and Daniel Gorringe, 22.

Yet Jamar, who continues to hold the No.1 ruck spot ahead of Max Gawn and Jake Spencer, knows his duel with Mumford will be a whole different challenge.

"He's a very well-rounded player and I know his teammates love playing alongside him and he lifts them and that's why he's such a good player," Jamar said.

"I've played a lot against big 'Mummy' over the years and we've had lot of good battles and I think this week will be another one of those days."