Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt is set to make a surprising selection for the upcoming match against the Springboks, with reports indicating that James O’Connor will don the No.10 jersey. This decision comes after Tom Lynagh was sidelined from the Rugby Championship tour to South Africa due to concussion, following an illegal play by Dan Sheehan. Many expected Ben Donaldson to fill the role, but Schmidt has instead opted for O’Connor, marking his first Test appearance since a loss to Argentina in 2022.
In addition to Lynagh’s absence, first-choice five-eighth Noah Lolesio is also unavailable, while Tane Edmed is in Johannesburg. O’Connor, now 35, was part of the squad during the British and Irish Lions series, though he did not play. This year, he contributed to the Crusaders’ success in the Super Rugby. He expressed his eagerness to prove himself, stating on The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast that he is ready to commit fully to the team: “If you pick me, I will do a job for you. I will go to war for you brother.”
Schmidt is expected to announce the final team on Thursday. In the lead-up to the match, South African coach Rassie Erasmus commented on Australia’s recent improvements, recognising them as a motivated and skilled side. He noted that Australia will be aiming to secure their first-ever victory at Ellis Park, adding an extra layer of intensity to the fixture. The Springboks have already named their squad, featuring key players such as captain Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth.
O’Connor’s selection not only underlines Schmidt’s tactical choices but also his faith in the veteran’s experience and capabilities at this crucial time in the Rugby Championship, as the Wallabies seek to bounce back from previous results against their rivals.