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The makeup of the backline for the Wallabies in 2014 is entirely up in the air. There are so many options to choose from, with many players in the form of their careers in Super Rugby.
The forced absence of Quade Cooper only heightens the doubt surrounding the backs. Some believe that Cooper’s injury could be a blessing in disguise, but this is yet to be seen.
There is a large consensus over Israel Folau at 15 and Nick Cummins on one wing, but the other wing is up for grabs. If Tevita Kuridrani is picked at 13, then the logical choice on the empty wing is Adam Ashley-Cooper.
>> Full Wallabies squad, positions and news
Ashley-Cooper has been playing great football for the Waratahs this year at 13, should his form be rewarded with a selection in his position of choice?
The biggest battle it seems is in the 10 and 12 jersey race, as there are credible options for both jerseys and strong cases for each. Basically, it comes down to two different styles of rugby that the Wallabies would play.
The could go with traditional fly-half play with a ball running 12 to straighten the field, complimented by a more skillful but smaller 13. Otherwise, the Wallabies could go with the model most recently seen during last year’s Spring Tour which consisted of a playmaking 10 and 12 in combination with a bigger straight running 13.
Speaking from personal experience, having a playmaking 12 in Matt Toomua improved quality of our backline play in 2013. Having almost a second fly-half that can distribute and relieve pressure with the boot takes the pressure off the 10 to create all attacking chances.
It also seems more difficult to defend at international level. I am well aware of Pat McCabe’s form this year, and his impressive progress in distribution and angle running are seeing him turn into a much more well rounded 12.
However I think his talents would be most useful coming off the bench, where he could cover a number of positions.
Seeing Bernard Foley and Toomua continue to progress as players this year, I would be very excited if they lined up alongside each other to play the French.
I know some are against using Tests to ‘experiment’ with combinations, but I don’t see us having anything to lose by selecting Foley at 10 with Toomua outside him. Toomua’s ballplaying ability, stoic defence and kicking game will allow Foley to ease himself into the Test and give audiences the chance to see if he really is up to Test level.
If he is not, then Lealeafiano or Beale are very strong candidates knocking on the door.
This three-Test series against Les Bleus would be a fantastic occasion to see Foley, Toomua, Kurtley Beale, McCabe, Kuridrani, Christian Lealiifano and Ashley-Cooper be given a run in the backline in different combinations.
I don’t see it as devaluing the jersey, but instead rewarding players who’ve put all put their hands up during great seasons with their Super Rugby clubs.
I have faith that the forward pack that is selected will compete fiercely and provide clean ball for our halfback, whether it be Nic White or Will Genia.
This will allow whatever backs we pick in the first Test to show the Australian rugby community why they should be picked for the Rugby Championship later in the year.
Maybe it is the eternal rugby optimist in me speaking, but I wouldn’t want to be a French rugby fan in June.
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.