Michael Hooper and Joey Manu’s Splurges Fail to Rescue High-Spending Club from Yet Another Defeat

Michael Hooper marked his return from retirement with a try, yet his star-studded Toyota Verblitz team is still facing challenges in Japan.

The former Wallabies skipper decided to lace up his boots again when the legendary Steve Hansen, director of rugby at Verblitz, reached out following an injury to Springboks’ star Pieter-Steph du Toit.

After trimming down for a stint in sevens, Hooper took time to regain his weight and showcased his strength with a determined try during the match against Toshiba Brave Lupus at Toyota Stadium last weekend.

The enthusiasm surrounding the 33-year-old flanker was clear as he was swiftly surrounded by elated teammates, including All Blacks legend Aaron Smith.

Toyota’s former NRL star Joseph Manu also scored his sixth try of the season, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory as Toshiba emerged victorious with a score of 33-22.

Hansen shares coaching duties at Toyota alongside former All Blacks mentor Ian Foster.

He faced off against two of his past players, with Toshiba, led by coach Todd Blackadder, being expertly orchestrated by Richie Mo’unga, who scored a brace of tries.

Toshiba are the reigning champions, while Toyota find themselves at the bottom of Conference B, having secured only two wins in 11 matches.

Hooper mentioned in an interview with Stan Sport’s Inside Line last month that he’s had some discussions with Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt, although a Test return against the British and Irish Lions this year still seems highly unlikely.

NEW PODCAST! The Inside Line crew delves into the fallout from Nick Phipps’ contentious remarks on the ongoing north vs south debate.

The Wallabies are well equipped in the openside with talents like Fraser McReight and Carlo Tizzano.

“I’d need to be playing exceptional rugby to be considered, and besides, I’ve stepped away from international rugby,” Hooper explained.

“While many have re-evaluated their plans, there’d need to be significant circumstances for any change in my stance.

“Competing at Test level demands an enormous commitment, and I’m uncertain if I possess that level of dedication to risk my body and bring the intensity necessary to be part of such a series.

“It’s fantastic to be back competing in 15s—I faced considerable challenges in sevens, which is a tough game. Returning to 15s felt right, even though I was a bit rusty—it genuinely felt like home on the field.

“My goal isn’t to reboot my career here; I’m approaching this on a week-by-week basis which is essential at this level… although I’m definitely keeping my options open, I haven’t come here with a fixed agenda.”