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Well now. Isn’t this interesting? We know rugby is the game they play in heaven, but this week must be a bye.
‘They’ – the rugby gods – have satisfied their boredom by getting up to mischief out here in the rugby universe. Since William Webb-Ellis picked up the ball and ran with it in 1876, player availability has been a trick the gods use to answer questions of selection and the like.
Heading into Round 4 of the Rugby Championship, it seems we are set to have at least some of the questions that have been hovering around the incumbent squad answered.
First, the curse of the Wallaby hooker has been lifted. Praise! Both Nathan Charles and James Hanson have done a fine job since getting the call, but as we prepare for the notoriously difficult Argentine scrum, it seems that the ball has rolled our way with return of veteran Tatafu Polota-Nau.
And in his 50th Test match, no less.
Most of us can agree that ‘Tafu’ is one of the top two in his position for Australia. As a centrepiece to the scrum, he will add a bulk and stability that will not go astray facing down Dos Pumas.
We can only hope that he will be quick to find form after being rushed back into Test rugby and that his sometimes patchy lineout throwing does not make an appearance.
Then we have the inclusion of 108-kilogram Western Force mainstay Ben McCalman. It is odd, considering his relative obscurity during the Rugby Championship thus far – particularly so considering that he didn’t even make the bench in round three when two other potential Number 8s did.
Nonetheless, all of those who have been calling for the head of injured Wycliff Palu may just have gotten what they wished for.
This is one of those decisions that makes me want to try to understand what goes on in coach Ewen McKenzie’s head. However, every time I think I’m getting close, I find my mind consumed by insane thoughts about national selections and an overwhelming urge to find a scrum to pack down in.
In this case, as reported by Jim Tucker of The Courier Mail, the man himself gave us hint. He was apparently quoted as saying starting McCalman in lieu of Palu was an attempt to swap “like for like”.
This may be clever decision, but others would equate an attempt to overpower the Argentine forwards to hitting your head on a brick wall. Nonetheless, the decision shows intent and that alone speaks volumes.
The backline is a curious story also. I have often criticised this Wallabies régime along with those preceding it for selecting key players, often stars, out of position. Well, the rugby gods have answered my prayers, with everyone playing in positions where they are well established.
The selection of Peter Betham over the larger Joe Tomane is sure to raise some eyebrows. At first I thought my preference would have been for the latter. But, Betham has quick feet and a great eye for lazy runners late in the game which is one place where Argentina has seem vulnerable and perhaps, just perhaps this is what the doctor ordered. Watch this space.
And finally, like the game itself the rugby gods reward form. By ruling out vice-captain Adam Ashley-Cooper, Brumbies powerhouse Tevita Kurindrani has a chance to further tighten is grip on the number 13 jersey.
If Kurindrani can continue his current form and back up his spectacular performance against the Springboks, the outside centre will have made himself very difficult to replace.
If this happens and the rest of the back line stays healthy, Ashley-Cooper is at risk of becoming yet another brilliant Wallaby utility without a solid home.
Kurindrani remaining in place is made more interesting still, by Beale remaining on the bench. Whatever side of the line in the sand between Beale and Toomua you stand on, maintaining the Brumbies Bash Brothers as pair has its appeal, particularly when the Wallabies forward pack continues to lack a clear enforcer.
If Beale is to remain on the bench, he should be able to prove whether McKenzie’s decision to keep him as an impact player is sound in this game.
Jokes and past criticisms aside, it’s my opinion that Ewen McKenzie has responded fairly well to the challenges of selection this week. Perhaps as one Roarer theorised, his selections have turned the corner. Time will tell.
Either way, thanks to the gods of rugby, so many of the questions which have led us to bicker among ourselves have the potential to be answered on Saturday.
One thing is certain, we are playing a proud side, with nothing to lose and if Australia is to take another step towards their captain’s claim to the Number 2 world ranking, they will want to bring their A game.
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.