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Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has shelved his Mr Nice-Guy persona and is intent on pushing his underperforming players out of their comfort zone in search of success.
Deans last week made the unusual move of pitting 43-squad hopefuls against each other in an internal trial match – challenging them to play for a place on the end of season tour.
He then announced a new leadership group, appointing Rocky Elsom captain, overlooking flyhalf Matt Giteau as his deputy and instead choosing the younger and less experienced Berrick Barnes.
Not one for cliched terms, Deans states he wants to see his players “take ownership for the collective performance” in a Test match.
In simple terms, he wants to see a full 80 minutes of team work.
No man is bigger than the team, no one had a pre-booked ticket to Tokyo, the gloves are off and all jerseys are up for grabs.
Deans has shown he values youth, unabashed passion and commitment, naming seven uncapped players in his 35-man squad while choosing to leave seasoned veterans Phil Waugh and Al Baxter at home.
Reports of Wallabies feeling added tension as they went into camp on Tuesday brought a near smile to Deans’s face.
“I hope there is some (tension) because there’s going to be, in terms of the challenge that we’re going in to,” Deans said.
“There’s dynamics, there’s chemistry, there’s emotion and that’s just par for the course and the reality for us is that we can’t stay in our current comfort zone, so to speak, and also achieve (success).
“We’re all going to be tested and we’re all going to be taken outside our comfort zone over the next month. It’s going to be great.
“The good thing now is that we’re getting leadership across the group … and that’s what we’re chasing, that’s what we’re seeking, everyone to take ownership of the collective performance.
“The critical thing was we’re all in this together and it’s not about leadership pertaining to a few, it’s about what we all do and what we all bring to the table.”
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.