Who played at 12 when we won the trinations title? You are talking a load of shite. We've had success against NZ (and Nonu) with McCabe at 12. I'm not saying he is possibly the best Wallaby option but he's a good player. The W's have problems in the backs. 10,12 is an issue. Quade has been in poor form and Barnes didn't shine at 12 when given the opportunity last year. Taps had a good game against the Poms followed up by a lousy game against Wales. Other than Genia at 9, I believe the whole backline is up for grabs.
I've hit a nerve here haven't I... knew it would get one Brumbies supporter riled up. Since he began playing for the Wallabies at 12 in 2011 we have won 1 from 6 against the all blacks(16%) if you consider that success you really need to raise your bar a bit. Also I believe last time he played Nonu in a domestic competition the Blues pantsed the Brumbies to shunt them out of the finals race.... again not exactly success. So clearly I'm not talking a "load of shite"
Just because he has played at 12 in an international doesn't make him a international 12 STANDARD. He isn't an international 12 standard player... I'm not nor have I ever said he is a poor player just that he isn't a 12. Being able to run hard & straight as well as tackle someone who runs at you doesn't make you an international standard 12. He has a very limited passing/offload/kicking game and barely bends the line at international level. He is a very good winger and I imagine he could make a good 13 but he is not a 12 at the top level, he just doesn't have the skills required to play there. Hence the point I was making, and adding my input to the discussion as to where to put him in the brumbies, he shouldn't displace Lilo or To'omua at the Brumbies because he isn't good enough to replace them at 12. Like I said, the only jersey he should be wearing is 11,13 or 14.
Side note: Mowen was exceptional in the game on the weekend, as was Mogg.... hopefully the wallabies open their eyes a bit more this year and pick on form. To'omua also had a reasonable game. I'm a fan of the Brumbies 2nd rowers Fardy & Carter as well. Exciting season ahead me thinks...