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Just as the Wallabies team seemed to be taking shape as the June Tests approach, Queensland threw a spanner in the works by starting Quade Cooper at fly-half for the Reds on the weekend.
Now the question on everyone’s lips is, “Who gets the 10 for the Wallabies?” My answer; not Quade. The Wallabies must avoid the a rush of blood and leave Quade out.
You may be thinking the reasons are simple. He’s far from 100 percent match fit and will no doubt still be clearing the rust. No. My reasons are different.
Quade is and always will be a gem… at club level. The Super Rugby competition continues to change year in, year out. It’s getting faster and far less structured. Teams are playing attacking rugby like we have never seen. Even our friends in South Africa are getting in on the action and scoring tries like never before.
Everything about club rugby these days screams for a player of Quade’s caliber. He thrives upon the open play and especially the play as you see it mentality.
I, like everyone, am overjoyed to have him back. Watching him play and trying to comprehend his process of thinking is worth a ticket alone, but people are quick to forget the happenings across the ditch at the World Cup.
Australia was average at best; Quade looked out of sorts and a close semi-final loss to the eventual champions was more than Australia deserved.
Quite simply, international rugby has not evolved like club rugby has. The game is a lot slower (especially at the breakdown), and when it comes to the backs everything is a lot more structured. A game built for All Blacks legends, Richie McCaw and Mr. Consistent, Dan Carter. Not Quade.
Quade plays naturally for the Reds. It just doesn’t happen the same way for the Wallabies. This is in no way down to his ability. His skill set is built for club rugby, not the grit and grind of international rugby. Simple as that.
All of this isn’t to say we should never select Quade for the Wallabies again. He is young and will no doubt continue to mature. He may still be our best option long-term.
But it’s post-World Cup and the June Tests are the perfect time to experiment. Our squad is young, and if there is one thing we have on our side, it’s time.
My opinion: James O’Connor must get first crack at the number 10.
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.