Former All Blacks hooker James Parsons recently acknowledged his misjudgment regarding Kurtley Beale following a remarkable return to Super Rugby Pacific. Beale, a veteran Wallabies player, showcased his skills as fullback for the Western Force in his first match in ten months after recuperating from a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained while playing for Randwick last year. Initially contemplating retirement due to this severe injury, Beale opted for a rigorous rehabilitation process instead.
During the match at Eden Park, Beale’s performance was nothing short of impressive. He managed to score a try, further kindling hopes for a Test return against the British and Irish Lions. Parsons, reflecting on Beale’s abilities, conceded, “Kurtley Beale, I’ll put my hand up, I said he might have been past it. But he was sharp tonight.” His contributions were invaluable, especially in his interactions with the wingers, showcasing his significant impact.
Despite Beale’s strong outing, the Western Force faced disappointment as they fell 40-19 to the defending champions, the Blues. Beauden Barrett, returning to the No. 10 jersey, was instrumental for the Blues, executing a kicking game that troubled the Force throughout the match. They managed to outscore the Force significantly due to their clinical execution.
For the Force, despite an initial strong performance with tries from Beale, flanker Carlo Tizzano, and hooker Nic Dolly, they struggled to maintain control, with captain Jeremy Williams noting that they were perhaps overly frantic in their attacking phase, leading to mistakes. “There were lapses in those ten-minute blocks where they just got away from us,” Williams acknowledged, as his team readied for their next encounter against the ACT Brumbies on May 10.
In summary, Beale’s remarkable return to form has reinvigorated discussions surrounding his capabilities and future aspirations within Australian rugby, while the Western Force must regroup and learn from a tough loss against a seasoned Blues side.