Opinion
For the most part, the Wallabies have plenty of future talent, but why weren’t some players blooded earlier?
There were plenty of injuries in The Rugby Championship and these players could’ve been blooded on home soil.
There are some extreme talents in this team, there is no doubt about it, the combinations are mostly non-existent.
I certainly like the back line, but the Azzuri can counter defensive lapses and may well overcome these untried patterns.
Having said that, perhaps coach Dave Rennie is looking for more of an instinctive playing group. If he can uncover a few gems and fill them with confidence, who knows?
Rennie obviously has Quade Cooper at 10 and Samu Kerevi at 12 for the World Cup, with others playing for back-ups in those two roles. But Len Ikitau, who is coming up as a key player, has held his position, purely on results and building combinations around him in case injuries befall the Cooper/Kerevi combination.
It’s inspired to have Nick Frost and Will Skelton in the locks. If they combine, this could be awesome, but it’s a big if.
Skelton plays out of his skin for his European clubs and did the same for the Waratahs in 2014, however, his impact for the Wallabies has been pedestrian, with the exception of last week off the bench.
He can and will dominate if he gets his mind right.
Throw in Frost finding his feet, who could be awesome in 12 months.
In the back row, Pete Samu has to start as he’s all class. When he’s on, Ned Hanigan is great, but he misses crucial tackles. Fraser McReight should be the starting No.7.
Michael Hooper has been awesome, but needs to show commitment for 80 minutes, even when the chips are down.
McReight sometimes goes off script when down by three. He can’t seem to find a way back. He has the ability, but being on the scoreboard seems to fluster him.
The back three are solid, but clearly looking for x-factor. I actually like it, but to throw these guys in with no combinations in Italy is a huge risk.
Mark Nawaqanitawase is a special athlete. This guy could be everything, but he will want to show up, as will Tom Wright and Jock Campbell.
This Wallabies vs Italy match is filled with both optimism and fear. Adventurous selections are fraught with danger.
Rennie has thrown his youngsters to the wolves and it could make or break him.
If they win flamboyantly, lose disgracefully or just win, he has to take note. It’s strange to leave it till ten months before a World Cup, but maybe it’s a masterstroke.
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.
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