As the Wallabies prepare to face the British and Irish Lions, calls for more experienced players to guide the team are growing louder. Coach Joe Schmidt is searching for a new fly-half due to Noah Lolesio’s recent surgery following an injury sustained in the team’s narrow victory over Fiji. Schmidt has praised Ben Donaldson’s performance as Lolesio’s replacement, but with the Lions series fast approaching, rugby legends are advocating for more seasoned choices.
Tom Lynagh would ordinarily be in consideration but is sidelined with a broken hand. Schmidt also handed Tane Edmed his Test debut last year, but Sir Ian McGeechan, a renowned former Lions coach, advised Schmidt to look to veteran James O’Connor as the preferred option for the opening Test in Brisbane. McGeechan highlighted the necessity for a strong start, suggesting that youthful players could be integrated into the game later on.
O’Connor, who has performed well with the Crusaders, is seen as a stabilising force. McGeechan noted the challenge Schmidt faces with Lolesio’s absence so close to the first Test, emphasizing the need for a player with experience to manage the pressure effectively. It was mentioned that an experienced player can act as a sounding board, essential in high-stakes situations.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of a strong lineup for the Lions series. He acknowledged the emerging talents in Super Rugby but reiterated the necessity of experience during such crucial encounters. Wallabies greats Tim Horan and Michael Hooper also put forth their support for another veteran option, Bernard Foley. Given Foley’s solid performance in Japan and his extensive experience, Horan believes he could serve as a tactician akin to Lions’ Owen Farrell.
Hooper further advocated for Foley’s inclusion, highlighting his ability to lead effectively in pressured situations. Schmidt has maintained communication with both O’Connor and Foley, weighing their potential contributions against the burgeoning talent in the squad. As the series looms, Schmidt faces the dilemma of balancing experience with youthful potential, and how that balance could impact the team’s performance against one of rugby’s most storied adversaries.