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Six weeks in to the Super Rugby season and there have been a few players to put their hand up as genuine Rugby World Cup bolters for the Wallabies.
This is not to say that they would be in the starting side, but more as cover and to keep the incumbent players honest and in case of injuries. Here are mine in no particular order of preference:
1. Ben Mowen – easily his best season to date, the extra size he has put on in the off season has paid off big time and has not affected his speed. He is a tireless worker and can cover blindside and number 8. He’s the Waratahs’ most consistent player.
2. Beau Robinson – given nothing but a chance to compete by the Reds, he has shone in the spot vacated by Braid last year. He’s getting better with every game and has added the much needed scavenger that every team craves in today’s game. Also proving a great link man and has strong defence.
3. Nick Phipps – has taken the opportunity afforded him by Rod Macqueen and had steadily gotten better with each week. Seems to be at every breakdown and fires a beautiful crisp long pass like every good halfback should. He can defend and run the ball as well.
4. Nick Cummins – an honest player who gives 100% everytime he takes the field. He doesn’t do anything flashy but runs hard and makes his tackles. A reliable and dependable outside back.
5. Pat McCabe – Another honest player who has little regard for his own well being. If you could bottle this guy’s courage and determination and spread it through the Wallabies we would never lose a game!
And finally my biggest and most controversial World Cup bolter to be in the starting side for the Wallabies at inside centre: Stirling Mortlock.
Mortlock is slowly getting back in form, has an incredible amount of experience, always gets over the advantage line in attack and is a staunch defender.
He is the perfect partner for Quade Cooper. He may have lost a step in pace but at inside centre he doesn’t need to be lightning quick. He can cover up Quade’s defence frailties, and draws in defence which will free up Quade to run more, and he has the big game experience to help guide the young backline to a World Cup victory.
Does anyone have any other bolters?
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.