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If the Wallabies are to win the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Matt Giteau must be the first choice inside centre. The much-maligned Brumbies playmaker has recently found himself on the outer of coach Robbie Deans’ selection plans, though for the Wallabies to succeed on the world-stage, Giteau must wear the number 12 jersey.
Giteau faces tough competition to regain his starting spot from his Australian rivals, who include the likes of Berrick Barnes, Stirling Mortlock, Anthony Faingaa and James O’Connor.
If you were to look at the teams that have won the World Cup over the years, you would notice that all the teams had a healthy combination of three things; experience, skill and leadership.
Giteau has all three in abundance.
Young and inexperienced players dominate the current Wallabies team, with an average age of 25 and number of test caps at 30.
The 1999 world champion Wallabies were able to boast an average age of 27.6 and 41 test caps.
Players of experience are vital to Wallabies’ chances at the World Cup and Giteau’s resume is one of the most impressive in world rugby.
At 28 years old, with 91 test caps and about to enter into his third World Cup campaign, Giteau is one of the most experienced players in the world, let alone the Wallabies squad.
Matt Giteau sets the rugby field alight with his electric feet, pinpoint passing and clever kicking game and has done so consistently throughout his career.
Two ‘IRB Player of the Year’ nominations (04, 09) and a John Eales Medal winner (09) join a long list of accomplishments that are testament to his ability.
Part of a struggling team at the Brumbies this season, Giteau has still managed to produce the same stats that have seen him dominate at the top level for a decade.
25 tackle busts, four line breaks and three tries so far this season, combined with solid defence have Giteau statistically dominating all but one of his Australian rivals.
Only James O’Connor can compare, though he is more than likely going to occupy a wing spot especially with the recent injury to Drew Mitchell.
Perhaps the most important thing that any team needs is strong leadership.
The world champion Wallabies in 1999 had a surplus of leaders with John Eales, one of the greatest captains in Australian sporting history, surrounded by a very strong leadership group.
Now, I am not saying that Giteau is in the same leadership mould as Eales, nor am I even saying he should be captain.
What Giteau does offer, which is less visible with some members of the current younger generation is a strong work ethic and a win-at-all-costs attitude.
Coach Robbie Deans believes attitude is one of the major reasons as to why Giteau has become the player and leader that he is.
“He’s been one bloke who’s been a constant and he fronts up every week. He’s got a great ethic, not only in games but in his preparation.”
With the Wallabies about to enter the war that is the World Cup, they need their most battle hardened, talented and inspirational warriors out on the battlefield.
Giteau cannot be ignored any longer.
If the Wallabies are to take their place atop the rugby world, Giteau must play inside centre.
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.