The Wallabies have come off a Northern hemisphere tour which was somewhat successful if you factor in the number of injuries they had to contend.
In my opinion it is just what the Wallabies needed to draw out next generation of players.
The inside backs were significantly different in this tour, with Deans selecting Kurtley Beale at five eighth over Berrick Barnes; an interesting choice but one that that payed off.
Ben Tapuai made great impact in the back line and stood out in the victory against England.
The back line I have chosen doesn’t involve individuals like the Wallaby team of the last two years but players that we know will click in attack and will also hold solid in defence.
Halfback – Will Genia
There is no doubt in anybody’s mind that Will Genia is the best halfback in the world.
His quick service off the rucks and his deceptive speed and x-factor is a necessity against this British and Irish Lions side.
Five-eighth – Quade Cooper
His attacking nature is like no other player in the world.
People have forgotten how much he disrupts opposition defensive lines, and when he is on a good day he is the best player in the world.
Last year he was off and on with injuries, but in the Super Rugby season so far Cooper’s attack has been mesmerising.
You could argue that he is a liability and his errors could cost us the tour, but his performances since Will Genia’s return to the Red’s squad he looks to be the best option.
Other contenders for this position are Christian Lealiifano and Matt Tamoua, or even James O’Connor, but due to him playing fullback for the Rebels this is unlikely.
Inside centre – Christian Lealiifano
The man was ready to make Wallabies debut last year but injury ruled him out.
He was almsot guaranteed the fly half position by this time last year.
The fact that he has actually been around for a while and is at his peak in the top of the table Brumbies side with little experience shows how much impact he has.
Putting him at inside centre instead of fly half gives the Wallabies the ability to have two play makers.
He is also rock solid in defence which will make up for Quade Cooper’s soft defence.
Pat McCabe and Berrick Barnes are also in the running for this position, but their recent injuries are affecting their chances of getting it.
Outside centre – Ben Tapuai
Last year’s Wallaby injury woes gave Ben Tapuai the chance to step up to international level. He did just that causing havoc in the English defensive line.
He is left footed, which relieves kicking duties off Cooper and his boot has been impressive in recent weeks.
He has great agility and a step that could fizzle any defensive pattern.
Another contender for this position is Adam Ashley Cooper who has found form in the last few rounds for the Waratahs.
He is a definite in the side because of his strong defence and ability to play nearly every back line position.
Quade Cooper’s defence is an issue and I think Adam Ashley Cooper will be the player to swap with him in defence.
Notice that all these players have the ability to kick and counter attack.
Christian Lealiifano and Ben Tapuai are both strong defenders and agile attackers giving the Wallabies just what they need to face Jamie Roberts and Tualagi in June.
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