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There is no doubt in my mind that Kurtley Beale has to be in the Wallaby backline. He is special, and now is his time to shine. With James O’Connor knocking on the door and also brimming with talent, he has to be in their somewhere, too.
Unfortunately for the Wallabies, both are currently playing fullback, and two does not go into one.
O’Connor’s preferred position is fullback, and he must be picked there for the Wallabies.
Beale is a naturally gifted five-eighth, and although many will disagree, that’s where he belongs. He has played well since moving to fullback for the Waratahs, but that’s because he could play anywhere and be a standout.
The reason he didn’t live up to expectations early on was partly because of the way the Waratahs were playing.
Excuse the term, but during his first couple of years with the Waratahs they were winning “ugly”. This style of play didn’t suit him.
He wasn’t happy or able to express himself which showed. He has since thrived now they have opened up their play.
Quade Cooper is a real talent, but unfortunately for him he is not a Beale and should graciously step aside.
The Beale’s of this world are once in a generation type players, there is no way they can leave him out. In my opinion, Beale should play five-eighth with O’Connor at fullback
The All Blacks, for example, can rest easy if Cooper is chosen at five-eighth.
However, this is not the case if Beale is selected there. He is the number one player that would make them nervous and have opposition players second guessing.
The rest of the backline is up for debate.
I would have Genia at 9; Beale at 10; Giteau at 12; Rob Horne at 13; Lachie Turner at 11; Drew Mitchell at 14 and Ashley-Cooper at 15.
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.