I’m sad for Michael Hooper but not surprised. Will Skelton is just one more Wallaby who benefited from playing a few years elsewhere. Good luck to him.
Huge, huge gamble. All past evidence is that squads need to be experienced and battle-hardened to get through rounds of RWC. He is trying something unprecedented. It might work but it could also be a complete disaster. Because he is Eddie he will get the benefit of the doubt for now. Welsh, Fijians and even Georgians might be feeling a bit more confident today though.
I worry about the lack of experience and no back up at 10. If Eddie wanted to go with youth, why not do that from the start of the International season? Jorgensen and Vunivalu seem bolters over Wright. Disappointing for Pete Samu as well. Quarter Finals is the expectation.
If that team takes a step forward from the final NZ game as they took steps forward before it, we have a fantastic opportunity. Our pool lends itself to strong performances (not perfect performances), as does the expected Quarter Final matchups. Long story short is that we have an opportunity to peak after some in-tournament momentum... and you know how important momentum can be!
Lots of ugly questions. I feel this is an ordinary squad. No Neville, Samu, Wright, Lonergan x 2, Holloway , Debreczeni!
Skeleton isn’t guaranteed a spot . Why is he Captain? Has he ever been a captain? Is he an inspirational leader?
It’s not a good squad and in my opinion Australian rugby will sink further.
Have a great day .
We will have that drink soon!
Mathers
I’m sad for Michael Hooper but not surprised. Will Skelton is just one more Wallaby who benefited from playing a few years elsewhere. Good luck to him.
Typical Eddie “crash through or crash” joyride.
Interesting reading these comments - the risk taker v the risk averse
Pleased for Skelton being skipper too. I think that’s a very good move
Huge, huge gamble. All past evidence is that squads need to be experienced and battle-hardened to get through rounds of RWC. He is trying something unprecedented. It might work but it could also be a complete disaster. Because he is Eddie he will get the benefit of the doubt for now. Welsh, Fijians and even Georgians might be feeling a bit more confident today though.
I worry about the lack of experience and no back up at 10. If Eddie wanted to go with youth, why not do that from the start of the International season? Jorgensen and Vunivalu seem bolters over Wright. Disappointing for Pete Samu as well. Quarter Finals is the expectation.
I like the squad. Only 1 specialist flyhalf confused me though...I know Donaldson is there but he has had zero minutes...
What do you reckon Eddie is planning there?
I like Skelton as captain too. Was a surprise initially but he knows what's involved in winning stuff and seems quite well spoken and respected.
Who knows, this might even signal a return to Oz rugby in the next few years?
Surprised about Wright and Samu and Skeleton at Captain (What!?,).
But otherwise I don't think Michael Hooper will be missed, especially the way Hooper and McReight played last match.
Thought Len could have been named given he's due to be fit by first match.
Whats the deal with injury cover? Is the squad we have all we have or can we call in reinforcements?
Captain was a surprise call. Only Gordon at 5/8 big call. Youth pace and a month to gel
Reminds me of a once Brumby side.
After watching the last 3 tests live progress is on track for a finals win. In Eddie we trust.
🏉GoYouGoodThing🏉
Definitely exciting times ahead Ben.
No baggage to inhibit the freedom these players have.
Good luck to them in RWC 23.
In Eddie we trust!
If that team takes a step forward from the final NZ game as they took steps forward before it, we have a fantastic opportunity. Our pool lends itself to strong performances (not perfect performances), as does the expected Quarter Final matchups. Long story short is that we have an opportunity to peak after some in-tournament momentum... and you know how important momentum can be!