Current qualifiers based overseas
Currently, only three Australians have been granted their Wallaby eligibility again.
George Smith (111 caps, Australian Contract from 2000-’10 + 2013 – 12 years)
Debuting against France in 2001, the ACT Brumbies legendary openside flanker amassed 111 Test caps in the 12 years representing that state. The 34-year old currently stands as the second most capped Wallaby forward behind Nathan Sharpe, and the second most capped Test flanker behind Richie McCaw. Smith currently represents Suntory Sungoliath in the Japanese Top 14.
Notably, Smith returned to Australian Rugby in 2013 to represent the Brumbies in the wake of David Pocock’s second knee injury, eventually selected to play in the deciding test against the British and Irish Lions.
Matt Giteau (92 caps , Australian Contract from 2001-’11 – 11 years)
Giteau debuted against the English at Twickenham in 2002, earning a futher 91 caps in a professional career that has spanned three Rugby World Cups. Now aged 29, and considered by many to be in peak form at the French club Toulon, Giteau’s versatility across the halfback, flyhalf, inside centre and fullback positions will make him a valuable addition to the Wallabies Rugby World Cup squad after controversially missing out on selection in 2011.
Drew Mitchell (63 caps, Australian Contract from 2004-’13 – 10 years)
Mitchell’s Super Rugby career began in 2004 with the Queensland Reds, before departing for long stints with the Western Force and NSW Waratahs. In that time Mitchell’s form on the wings earned him 63 Test caps, debuting in 2005 against the Springboks.
Currently a team-mate with fellow Australian Matt Giteau at Toulon, the selection of Drew Mitchell would add plenty of experience to the Wallaby squad, and his familiarity with the rest of European Rugby and conditions should not be understated.
