Former captain James Horwill’s omission from last year’s Wallabies World Cup squad had many thinking it was the end of the second-rower’s international career.
So it was a surprise to many to see Horwill’s name in the 39-man training squad named on Thursday ahead of next month’s Test series against England.
Horwill’s form with English club Harlequins since his World Cup disappointment made him impossible to ignore for Cheika.
Queensland Reds captain James Slipper says his former teammate has shown the strength of his character to get himself back into the Wallabies frame.
“It’s great to see he’s back,” said Slipper, also a member of the 39-man squad.
“Sometimes missing a World Cup can really hurt and I’m sure it really hurt Kevvie, but that’s testament to the type of bloke he is, he just kept working and putting his head down and playing good rugby.
“(Wallabies coach Michael Cheika) has rewarded that. We’re all pretty excited about that.”
Horwill’s time in England may also bring a bit of inside knowledge on next month’s opponents, something Slipper is sure the Australians will be keen to exploit.
“Hopefully he’s got a few tips on how to take them on,” Slipper said.
“He’s a player who plays with his heart on his sleeve and always puts 100 per cent in for his country.
“He’s earned this call-up to the squad, been playing great rugby and it’s good to see him back.”
Clelo
Guest
You can't compare someone like Horwell and Skelton who is a log of wood. You have to remember he was an Australian captain and an accomplished lineout caller before he left. He also would be picked on the quality oif his recent form. Averaging 73 minutes a game says a lot for a tight forward regarding form, his nous as an assett to the side and all round contribution to the team. I am from WA so I am not pushing his barrow just recognising the a bloody good player when I see one. The other comment I wish to make is that if Cheika plays Izzy anywhere but outside centre he is an idiot. I have been saying to my colleagues ever since he broke into the WBs that is his most effective position. Look back at the devastating effect he has had against NZ teams this year. That was missi ng at the World Cup because they worked him out and just kept the ball away from him like they did with Pocock. When Izzy is playing centre he is closer to the play on both sides of the field and is likely to be a match winner. If he is stuck at fullback the ABs will kick the ball away from him reducing him to a mediocre player chasng dead balk all day, which he is not. Focus on his natural skills and Australia will reap the rewards. PS I am a KIWI.
Chaz
Guest
As an England fan (who's watched Quins quite a bit this season) I'd much rather Cheika played Skelton (who to be fair I've not seen a lot of) that Horwill.
Train Without A Station
Roar Guru
Spoken like somebody who has zero understanding of a line out, and zero realization that there are approximately 10 line outs per game which give great attacking opportunity... But only if you win them...
dontcallmeshirley
Guest
No player should be selected just because they call the line-out. Pick the best players and then select a caller from the 8
Mr Wendall
Roar Rookie
As an All Blacks fan, this makes me happy,
Brisbane Boys
Guest
Big Kev is a valuable addition jus thad a look at the Quinns site he has played 22 games for them this year for a total of 1607 minutes for an average of 73 minutes per game. By any stretch that is a fair season so he will be match fit. He will have played the equivalent of a full super rugby season including finals. My only hope is that he still has petrol in the tank.
stubs
Roar Rookie
I find that hard to swallow. Horwill offers a heap of experience and I doubt Cheika would be promising anything to anyone.
Paul
Guest
But does Big Kev have his mongrel back?
ken
Guest
Would have come close to winnning the world cup if BIG KEV was there..Cheicka took a bloke recovering from injury with a history of injuries into the world cup...And guess what ..He got injured again ...
PeterK
Roar Guru
Horwill good for experience and backup. I would start Coleman and have Arnold on the bench but could understand if Horwill was on the bench to close out a game with his experience.
PeterK
Roar Guru
Coleman calls the lineout for the Force, Simmons did for the reds so do not see how that gives the edge to Horwill
Mattty
Guest
Surely this is Cheika rewarding Horwill for not being included in the RWC squad. I'm almost certain Cheika spoke to him on the phone last year when the squad was announced with promises to select him for this test series no matter what. I for one what rather blood Coleman and Arnold as the future physical lock, but I do remember John Eales advising picking line out callers first which gives Horwill the edge -- Comment from The Roar's iPhone app.