Here’s the Wallabies 25 man squad to face the British and Irish Lions. There will be six more players added to the squad on June 11. The captain will be named then as well.
The biggest talking points:
- No Quade Cooper
- No George Smith
- No to Pat McCabe, yes to Rob Horne
- Only one half-back – who is Deans thinking of here (Burgess??)
- Ben Mowen finally gets his chance
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Backs
Israel Folau
The most talented freak running around a rugby field in Australia. Question – can he handle test footy?
Nick Cummins
NEVER get between a honey badger and his test meat
Digby Ioane
He may be pissing off to France, but his recent performances for the Reds show his mind is still on the job
Joe Tomane
He’s starting to deliver that potential the Leaguies thought he would for them. Can he go all the way?
Adam Ashley-Cooper
Has started every match for the Waratahs at 13 this year, and guess what – he’s OWNING it.
Rob Horne
Late form has made him the bustling 12 of choice.
Christian Leali’ifano
The kid deserves his shot, but would appear to be there as backup.
Berrick Barnes
Not much gametime in 2013, but his big game temperament and solidity is what Deans craves.
James O’Connor
Suddenly Dingo thinks he’s a perfect 10. Inspiration or folly?
Will Genia
Surely the first name on the sheet. Only a lunatic wouldn’t pick the best 9 in the world.
Squadcast
Want to hear more about the Squad selection from World Cup Winning Coach Bob Dwyer and our own panel of G&GR ‘experts’? Listen to our special edition SQUADCAST below. (If you only want to hear Bob Dwyer, he’s right up front)
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Forwards
Wycliff Palu
The big boppa has his critics, but he still blasts the hardest yards like no one else in Aus. Will grind the first 50
Michael Hooper
Just finding his feet at the Tahs, but last time in Gold he was close to the best in the world. A freak on his feet.
Liam Gill
The best man on the ball in Australia, until George Smith turned up. Still a brilliant talent who deserves his shot.
Dave Dennis
No doubt a selection sending Queenslanders into orbit, provides cover at 5 and half.
Scott Higginbotham
A completely new player having taken on the Captaincy of the Rebels. Finally a real forward option at 6 & 8.
Ben Mowen
Must be still pinching himself, has been turned down more times than your ugly sister. Deserves his shot
Rob Simmons
His line-out calling will be playing a big factor. Prone to penalties under pressure.
James Horwill
The talisman of the pack, Big Kev leads from the front. Vital grunt against the Lions.
Sitaleki Timani
Deans’ man mountain experiment has yet to pay dividends. Will better Tah fitness help?
James Slipper
Brings flexibility and the ability to work around the park for 80 minutes. Can he anchor against the Lions?
Ben Alexander
Not the best loose-head scrummager in the Brumbies, let alone tight-head, his experience is clearly valued.
Benn Robinson
Arguably the second name on the sheet. The best loose head in Australia.
Sekope Kepu
Despite some questions the Waratahs front row has been dominating. Offers flexibility
Stephen Moore
Mr Dependable, you can always budget quality from the guy. Most people’s starting rake.
Saia Faingaa
With TPN busting his arm, the young fella gets another crack.
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