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Australia's Stephen Larkham is tackled during the All Blacks v Australia tri nations rugby match at Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand, Saturday July 21, 2007. New Zealand 26 bt Australia 12. AAP Images
Every Rugby World Cup winning rugby team has a world-class general playing at 10. In the past, the Wallabies have been blessed with Michael Lynagh and, of course, Stephen Larkham.
Since the departure of Stephen Larkham, the Wallabies have had mixed success on the field, which has reflected the mixed form of Matt Giteau – one day great, the next day, not so great.
To date, Giteau has not made the Wallaby No 10 position his own.
The 2010 Super 14 season promises to be fascinating. Berrick Barnes has moved to the Waratahs and will take over at No 10. Quade Cooper, with his court adjournment, will play 10 for the Reds.
Giteau is No 10 at the Brumbies, and now with season ending injury to Andre Pretorius, will we see James O’Connor move into the No 10 role for the Western Force?
So who, barring injury, will be the Wallaby 10 come June this year?
Will it be Barnes – who brings a solid all round game with great catching, passing, kicking skills coupled with a great defence?
Or will it be the all-round unpredictable but risky skills of Cooper.
Then, of course, Giteau will be looking to combine his talents in attack and defence which are more easily plied in the Super 14. Or, finally, will it be O’Conner that stands tall and delivers on his potential.
Robbie Deans must be sitting back salivating at the prospect of Barnes Vs Cooper Vs Giteau Vs O’Connor. I cannot remember when Australia had four quality No 10s competing for the Wallaby General’s position.
But who will it be?
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.