Former Test selector Tim Horan is advocating for the Wallabies to establish a consistent leadership by sticking with their current captain, following a report that Jake Gordon is set to be named as the ninth captain in just three years.
This week, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt remained tight-lipped about the AAP report but praised the attributes of Waratahs captain Gordon ahead of the British and Irish Lions tour, which kicks off in Perth on June 28.
Harry Wilson, the Queensland No.8, led the Wallabies towards the end of last year due to an injury sustained by Schmidt’s initial captaincy choice, Liam Wright.
Harry Wilson celebrates with the Ella-Mobbs Trophy after a thrilling victory. Getty
During Eddie Jones’ tumultuous 2023 tenure, Michael Hooper, James Slipper, Allan Alaalatoa, Tate McDermott, Will Skelton, and Dave Porecki all took turns as Wallabies captain.
“I was a selector during Eddie Jones’ first stint, just so you know, which is why I didn’t have a say,” Horan joked on Stan Sport’s Inside Line. He was then asked about his preferences for captaincy.
“I’d look at someone like Fraser McReight, a player who could wear the Wallabies jersey for the next four to five years.” Horan continued.
Wallabies players during the national anthem. Getty
“He’s definitely a contender. Yet Harry Wilson has performed admirably, and Tate McDermott is another who will be with the Wallabies for a long time. Ultimately, we need a figurehead, a captain who kids can look up to and say, ‘I know he’s the Wallabies captain.’
“Kids know who leads the Australian cricket team… I firmly believe the Wallabies’ captain should be a constant presence for 12 to 24 months as we approach the next Rugby World Cup in 2027. Who might that be?
“So that the young ones can recognise – I know it’s John Eales, I know it’s Michael Hooper.”
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Former Wallabies lock Justin Harrison has hinted that the leadership responsibilities may continue to be shared among various players.
Schmidt will announce his inaugural squad after the ACT Brumbies conclude their season.
The Brumbies are set to compete against the Chiefs on Saturday in the second Super Rugby Pacific semi-final.
“I believe there’s still a lot of uncertainty,” Harrison commented.
“I expect multiple captains to be named, as we’ve seen some teams appoint captains and vice-captains who come off the bench as well. This suggests that a number of individuals will be called upon to lead the team, guiding various tactical decisions and strategies…
“I really appreciated Harry Wilson’s words when he extended his contract. It was one of the finest comments I’ve read from an Australian rugby player. He said, ‘I cannot expect others to commit to this environment and turn down offers if I don’t do the same. I’ve never contemplated moving overseas, and here I am.’ That’s truly impressive. It warrants support.”
In other news, former Hurricanes winger Salesi Rayasi has been included in Fiji’s squad to face Australia next month.
The accomplished 28-year-old has spent six seasons with the Hurricanes and currently plays for Vannes in France’s Top 14.
After previously representing the New Zealand sevens team, he has switched nationality to play for Fiji, following in the footsteps of his father Felipe, who played 13 Tests for Fiji during the 1990s.
Salesi Rayasi of the Hurricanes scores a try at Sky Stadium. Getty
The Wallabies’ upcoming Test against Fiji in Newcastle on July 6 will serve as their only preparation for the series against the Lions.
“Both Australia and Scotland are recognised tier one nations, and we understand the level we need to aspire to,” remarked Fiji coach Mick Byrne, a former AFL player and Wallabies assistant.
“This squad represents the depth and strength of Fiji rugby, and we aim to deliver a performance that instils pride in every Fijian.”
Mick Byrne, during his tenure as skills coach for Australia. Getty
The Fiji squad comprises 13 players from the Drua who participated in Super Rugby this season, alongside 10 players currently based in France.
“We have concentrated on building combinations that not only offer tactical flexibility but also embody the distinctive Fijian spirit,” Byrne commented.
“We aim to secure victory, but more significantly, we want to win while playing our style of rugby.”
– sourced from AP
Fiji squad
Forwards: Eroni Mawi, Luke Tagi, Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Peni Ravai, Tevita Ikanivere, Samuel Mativesi, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua, Setareki Turagacoke, Viliame Mata, Elia Canakaivata, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Albert Tuisue, Etonia Waqa, Motikai Murray
Backs: Simione Kuruvoli, Philip Baselala, Sam Wye, Caleb Muntz, Isaia Armstrong-Ravula, Vilimoni Botitu, Josua Tuisova, Iosefo Masikau Baleiwairiki, Sireli Maqala, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Ponipate Loganimasi, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selesitino Ravutaumada, Salesi Rayasi
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