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Again we have seen the highs and lows of Quade Cooper. In general play, he had a solid game last night. He kicked well, both for goal and around the field. He led his backline around the field with aplomb.
But then he kneed Richie McCaw in the head. Cooper has been cleared, but here’s my view for what it is worth.
Cooper, either intentionally kneed McCaw or he acted with reckless disregard as to whether he kneed him or not. Regardless, McCaw was on the ground and unable to protect himself.
It was a low act not commensurate with Wallaby tradition.
Clearly, he has some problem with McCaw. At least once last night, they had each other around the throat.
You will recall Cooper shoved McCaw in the back of the head after a try was scored in the Hong Kong Test. That was also uncalled for. It seemed to me to indicate a meanness of spirit evidenced again last night.
What appears to me to complicate the matter for Cooper is his statement in the press conference after the game. He said that he did not remember the incident. That is a bit hard to swallow.
Thorne, maybe not unjustifiably, went for him immediately after. Did Cooper not remember that? Did he not feel his knee hit a face? Did no-one allege then he had kneed McCaw?
The unfortunate part of all this is the questioning of Cooper’s integrity. It is most distasteful.
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.