Wallabies back-rower Sean McMahon will join Australia’s rugby sevens team for the first time since 2014.
McMahon will be included in the Aussies’ squad for the second round of the Sevens World Series in Cape Town this week.
The 25-year-old, who has 27 Test caps to his credit, wants to put himself in contention for Tokyo 2020.
“Walshy and I have been talking about returning to sevens and I am really looking forward to representing my country again,” McMahon said.
“The Australian Sevens team having been building well following their qualification for the Olympics next year and I’m looking forward to putting my hand up for the campaign.”
McMahon, who plays for Japanese club Suntory, made his professional debut in the rugby sevens in 2012 before making the switch to Super Rugby with Melbourne Rebels in 2014.
He made his Wallabies debut in 2014 and played his last Test against Scotland in 2017.
Australia were beaten in the quarter-finals of the opening round Dubai Sevens last week with Walsh poised to name his squad for the South African leg of the championship later this week.
Waxhead
Roar Rookie
I didn't say there was definitely a direct link TWAS :) Just an interesting coincidence
Puff
Guest
McMahon's explosive rugby style maybe the positive element missing in the Australian Sevens team. At this early juncture they are not penciled in as metal contenders and will need to dig deep over the coming months to enhance their prospects. For athletes aspiring Olympic recognition, only twelve months out, will need to display extreme dedication, due to the limited time available. This is not a simple transformation as fitness @ field awareness is only part of the strategy. I wish McMahon good luck as very few accomplished 15 aside specialist are able to adapt to the 7’s concept.
Tooly
Roar Rookie
Bring him home and make him Captain.
MitchO
Guest
Sean's in Japan. The Olympics are in Japan. He just saw a World Cup in Japan so he's thinking wouldn't it be great to play in an Olympics (and in Japan). That is a far cry from Sean wanting to return to playing super or test rugby in Australia.
Train Without A Station
Roar Guru
I'm all for a Cheika bagging, but this is Aus 7s which Cheika was never involved in, in any way.
Train Without A Station
Roar Guru
That's a fascinating interpretation considering that Sean McMahon signed his Japanese contract over 12 months prior to Hooper signing his new 5 year contract.
Rat
Roar Rookie
Another Victim of Cheika and his Hooper contract.
Waxhead
Roar Rookie
Good news Interesting that as soon as Cheika leaves McMahon returns. McMahon can be added to the long list of excellent WBs Cheika sent packing OS. He was particularly brutal (and insane) on our best backrowers - Fardy, Gill and McMahon. Let's hope Sean signs for a SR team asap.
bobt
Guest
not everybody from super makes it, Quad didn't quite make it but maybe left his run a bit late. No doubt it would be disspointing for those who have been part of the program but I am hoping if Sean is selected on merit only, as should all the other players as well.
bobt
Guest
excellent, hope he goes well
Bobby
Roar Rookie
Yeah, I know Train. I suppose rhat we could dump most if the Sevens side in an Olympic year and replace them with Super players.
DonWan
Guest
If Sean is good enough to play for the 7's team then its only fair that he be picked.
Adsa
Roar Rookie
Come on home Sean and sign up for the Reds.
Train Without A Station
Roar Guru
It's professional sport. Players are picked on ability, not tenure.
jeznez
Roar Guru
Yeah, very pleased to hear that - not least because it suggests he's over his injuries.
jeznez
Roar Guru
They should just send a Randwick 7's team up - doesn't Walsh realise that Campo and the Ella's used to play for them?
Bobby
Roar Rookie
Feel a lot sorry for guys in Sevens who get chucked out of their chance of representing Aussie at the Olympics, to allow million dollar players to take their dream away. Chances of winning Gold, Silver or even Bronze are neglible anyway. Just a shame !
Peter Kelly
Guest
Some good news. Sean McMahon should be captain of the Wallabies IMO. Hopefully with a new coach in place we will see him back in the Australian 15 man version soon - such a waste to rugby him playing in Japan at only 23/4.
Dougie
Roar Rookie
Still only 25.? Maybe he will play for a Super Rugby franchise in 2021 ?
Sage
Roar Rookie
Isn't it Ken. Happy to hear