Matt Toomua shook off some obvious rust, Billy Meakes (pictured) worked hard to provide the same shape as Kurtley Beale, Lukhan Tui fired a few physical shots at the ‘he’s not a Test No.6’ critics (well, principally this column), Marika Koroibete enjoyed himself and Tom Banks was Tom Banks. What was there not to like about the Wallabies trial against a Super Rugby selection on Friday?
You could add to the list above that Jack Maddocks and Jordan Petaia looked very comfortable. There were downsides, too. The first half was messy at times and Rory Arnold blotted his copybook with loose carries. In a tight selection race that may count against him. But most importantly the Wallabies began to take shape.
Marika Koroibete carries with intent for Cheika’s Choice.
Is the following – injury permitting – close to what will run out against the All Blacks? Sio, TPN, Kepu, Coleman, Rodda, Tui, Hooper, Pocock, Genia, Foley, Koroibete, Beale, Hodge, DHP, Folau: Res: Latu, Robertson, Tupou, Arnold, Samu, Phipps, Toomua, Banks.
2. Read’s warning for Wallabies
There will be interest here in the Beauden Barrett v Richie Mo’unga debate in New Zealand but Kieran Read’s performance in the Super Rugby final also merits attention.
The All Blacks captain missed the June series against France and while not yet at his absolute best his work rate against the Lions showed he was trending in the right direction.
All Blacks captain Kieran Read is showing worrying form for the Wallabies.
He is a dominant figure in New Zealand, constantly putting up his hand for the next hard carry, or tackle, and the All Blacks will be far better with him in the Rugby Championship.
He epitomises a particular kind of danger for the Wallabies – the ability of Kiwi forwards to play on the gainline with their soft hands and ability to square up defenders and get a short pass away. They are brilliant at it.
3. Take a bow referee Gardner
This is what refereeing looks like when the game’s bosses give them more control and the ref is good enough and confident enough to use it. Angus Gardner had another strong game in the Super Rugby final, using technology sparingly and, most importantly, quickly.
If there was no obvious evidence to overrule his on-field decision, then play on. The Australian has established himself as the best in the southern hemisphere and may be the world’s best if he continues to develop. He wanted not to be noticed in the decider. Well, he was, but in the right way.
4. Mo’unga is the Rolls-Royce
The Lions brought plenty of determination to the final – and created plenty of opportunities. In fact, if you had swapped the respective No.10s, Richie Mo’unga and Elton Jantjies, they may have won.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen’s comment that Mo’unga was playing behind the ‘‘Rolls-Royce’’ pack was designed to support Beauden Barrett, but Mo’unga showed that is only half the story.
Richie Mo’unga must be causing Steve Hansen some headaches.
He has now been the best player on the field in three of the past four finals he has played (two Super Rugby, two NPC) and caused the All Blacks problems behind a Barbarians pack last year.
5. Hardwick is Test quality
Rebels openside Richard Hardwick had limited opportunities this year but you can see why he is still of national interest. He’s tough, powerful over the ball and quick. He showed great speed to score a first-half try against the Wallabies.
The Rebels had a nightmare end to their season but there is plenty to look forward to with the recruitment of Isi Naisarani, who was strong on Friday, and possibly more chances for Hardwick. He’s a Test footballer. When you look at the trouble the likes of England have picking a No.7 it’s a reminder of where Australia is blessed.
Source: Read Full Article