Michael Hooper has indicated that a return to Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies squad for the upcoming Lions series is unlikely, although he hasn’t entirely closed the door on a comeback. The celebrated flanker stepped away from international rugby in June 2024 but has resumed playing club rugby with Toyota Verblitz in Japan’s League One.
At 33, Hooper has participated in two matches this year, one with Toyota’s second team and another in the top-tier league. Speaking on the Inside Line podcast on Stan Sport, he stated that a return to the national team would require “extraordinary circumstances.” He emphasised the need to be in excellent form to be considered for selection, acknowledging that players often adjust their retirement decisions but noting that significant changes would be necessary for him.
Hooper reflected on the intense commitment required at the Test level, expressing uncertainty about his readiness to meet those demands again. He remarked, “I am unsure if I have that level of commitment to put the body on the line and have the intent that you need to have to be a part of that series.” However, he is relishing the opportunity to compete in 15-a-side rugby again, mentioning that although he faced challenges in the sevens format, returning to 15s felt familiar.
He clarified that his aim in Japan isn’t to relaunch his career but rather to take things on a week-by-week basis while keeping options open. Communication with Schmidt has been minimal, consisting of just a brief text exchange when he joined Verblitz.
For now, Hooper appears focused on his club commitments while remaining realistic about the possibility of re-entering the international arena under exceptional circumstances.