Wallabies face France with debutant playmaker after injuries to key players
Wallabies grapple with playmaker injuries
The Wallabies are set to face France in Brisbane with a new face at five-eighth, as injuries have sidelined key playmakers. Declan Meredith, an uncapped player from the ACT Brumbies, will make his Test debut in the No.10 jersey. This decision follows injuries to Carter Gordon and Ben Donaldson during and after the recent match against Ireland.
Gordon has been ruled out with a calf strain and is expected to miss the upcoming Test against Italy in Perth. Donaldson also sustained a calf injury, though it is hoped he might be fit for the Italy match next week. The absence of both players has led to coach Joe Schmidt making a significant selection for the crucial game against France, the reigning Six Nations champions.
Meredith’s selection means he will be the seventh different flyhalf for the Wallabies in recent Tests. The team has experienced frequent changes in the No.10 position due to injuries and tactical adjustments. Schmidt acknowledged the lack of continuity at flyhalf as a concern, describing it as a “curse of the 10 jersey.”
Meredith’s debut and team changes
At 27, Meredith is making his Test debut after a strong season with the ACT Brumbies. He will be supported by club teammates Ryan Lonergan and Len Ikitau. Schmidt noted that Meredith has had ten days with the squad to build confidence and integrate with the team. However, the coach also acknowledged the significant challenge Meredith faces against a strong France side.
In addition to the change at flyhalf, Tom Wright will return to fullback, moving Jock Campbell to the bench. Campbell, who started at fullback against Ireland, will provide cover for the five-eighth position despite never having started a professional game there. Filipo Daugunu, a utility back, will also join the matchday 23.
Further changes include Nick Champion de Crespigny being named as a reserve, replacing the injured No.8 Tom Hooper, who is out with a shoulder injury. France, meanwhile, will be without winger Damian Penaud but will see the return of nine players from the Top 14 final.
Wallabies’ recent form and challenges
The Wallabies are facing a formidable challenge against France, who are currently on a three-match winning streak against Australia. Schmidt’s team is looking to avoid a six-game losing streak, a situation not seen since 2015-16. The last time Australia defeated France was at Suncorp Stadium in 2021, where they secured two victories.
In their recent loss to Ireland, the Wallabies demonstrated strong attacking metrics, carrying further, beating more defenders, and making more clean breaks. They also scored five tries and stole four Irish lineouts. However, issues with composure and discipline proved costly, as they conceded 12 penalties and missed crucial kicks, squandering ten points.
Over the last five years, the Wallabies have lost eight Tests by narrow margins of three points or fewer. This contrasts with rivals like Ireland, France, and New Zealand, who have experienced fewer such losses. This trend suggests a need for a more ruthless approach and reliable kicking under pressure. Ryan Lonergan, who had a 90% kick success rate in the Super Rugby season, is a potential option for kicking duties.
The Wallabies will need fast feet, cool heads, and a hard edge to secure a victory against France on Saturday.
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Source: theguardian.com
