Corey Toole, the exciting winger for the Wallabies and a standout performer in Super Rugby Pacific, is receiving strong support from his teammates as he gears up for the international stage. Although Toole was included in last year’s Rugby Championship squad, he didn’t manage to play. However, he recently showcased his skills as a member of the Australian sevens team, finishing fourth at the Paris Olympics. During this time, head coach Joe Schmidt provided him with specific areas to improve for Test rugby.
Standing at 178cm and weighing 85kg, Toole may not possess the typical physicality expected on the rugby field, yet he made a significant impact during the Super Rugby semi-final against the Chiefs, scoring a remarkable try by powering through star player Damian McKenzie. Brumbies captain Allan Alaalatoa expressed his excitement over Toole’s performance, remarking on how it injected energy into their game.
The Wallabies are set to kick off their 2025 campaign against Fiji on July 6 in Newcastle, followed by naming a fresh squad for a match against the British and Irish Lions on July 11. Alaalatoa praised Toole for his electric pace and skill, highlighting the importance of providing him space to utilise his talents effectively. He noted that Toole had diligently worked on the feedback received from Schmidt during the Super Rugby season, making this selection particularly rewarding.
The Lions, too, have a player of a similar stature, Mack Hansen, while the South African champions have embraced smaller wingers, such as Cheslin Kolbe. Toole has been noted as one of the fastest players in Australian rugby history, with reported speeds reaching up to 37.08 km/h. Teammate Tom Wright remarked on Toole’s explosive acceleration, particularly in the first few steps, which are crucial during gameplay.
Wright also commended Toole’s improvement in communication, kicking, and defensive skills, emphasizing that his greatest asset remains his extraordinary speed. The anticipation around Toole’s potential contributions continues to grow, with many believing he is more than deserving of this opportunity. Overall, his teammates are eager to see the young talent make his mark on the international stage.