James O’Connor is hopeful for a return to the Wallabies as the national coach Joe Schmidt prepares to announce a squad for upcoming matches against Fiji and the British and Irish Lions. On Thursday, Schmidt is likely to include O’Connor in a roster of around 40 players, a selection bolstered by O’Connor’s impressive performances with the Crusaders, particularly as they head into the Super Rugby final against the Chiefs in Christchurch.
This will be a significant moment for O’Connor, marking his first Super Rugby final after starting his professional career with the Western Force at just 17. Now at 34, O’Connor has had a storied career that spans teams like the Melbourne Rebels and Queensland Reds, and he even participated in the 2013 Lions series.
In an interview with Stan Sport’s “Between Two Posts Extra,” O’Connor expressed gratitude for his position, highlighting that his aim in moving to the Crusaders was to learn and be part of a victorious franchise. He stated, “I just want to be present and take everything as it comes.” While he acknowledges the prospect of playing in the Lions series, his immediate focus is on the formidable Chiefs, who come into the match as slight favourites despite the Crusaders’ home advantage and renowned record in finals.
O’Connor is set to conclude his current contract soon, with speculation suggesting he may join the Leicester Tigers in the upcoming season. Throughout his long and impressive career, he has remained committed to maintaining his physical fitness and competitive edge.
Having reflected on his experiences with the Crusaders, O’Connor described the team’s work ethic and determination. He noted that the coming match would be challenging, particularly given the conditions expected in Christchurch. He praised the team’s mentality and emphasised the importance of willingness to work hard for the team’s success.
In the semi-finals, the Crusaders staged a remarkable comeback against the defending champions, the Blues, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. O’Connor highlighted the talent of his teammates, especially Will Jordan, who played a crucial role in securing their place in the final.
As this chapter of his career unfolds, O’Connor is eager to contribute to a potential victory in the Super Rugby final and any future opportunities with the Wallabies. He believes that their perseverance in challenging circumstances will ultimately define his and the team’s journey going forward.