Wallabies 2025
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The Ghost of Raelene
Phil Kearns (64)
That's a good shout. Len along with Bell is probably the only bloke who isn't challenged for his spot in this side at all. Almost throw McReight in that category but Tizzano has thrown down the challenge this year. If Len was out, you are definitely just keeping the seat warm.
Jury is still out on how effective Tizzano is at test level. He is pushing Fraser though.
The Ghost of Raelene
Phil Kearns (64)
I don't really think so, but there's enough loving his work to think he's pushing him. If we could take the try tally out of our minds it would change a lot of thinking.
Thalium
Darby Loudon (17)
Even without the tries Tizzano beat more defenders made more tackles and made more runs than McReight so I think he is definitely pushing for that spot
LeCheese
John Hipwell (52)
And McReight made more metres, more turnovers, and more dominant tackles.
You can cherry pick all you like, but the reality is that they both had a few stats where they bested the other, but were relatively (if not exactly) even elsewhere.
No denying Tizzano had a cracking season, and I'd argue McReight did too (especially considering half his upper body was clearly busted for a good chunk of it). Both deserving of a Wobs spot.
Tizzano has had a fantastic year but so has McReight. He’s just had more of them that it doesn’t stand out.
Fraser with 20 caps has unequivocally proven himself a test player, Carlos has not… yet. If Mcreight was injured it would be a big step down imo.
Yeah well I’m not sure if highlighting that he conceded more penalties is worth it if it’s by 1 pen.
Tazzmania
Dave Cowper (27)
I never described it as miles ahead, I only highlighted that your comment about a big step down does not really reflect in the actual data stats.
You brought it up so I thought you considered it to be significant. Tizzano does have considerably more defenders beaten.
But stats aside, whenever I see Fraser play he has this unbelievable knack of being able to read the play and be in the right place at the right time. Not sure data can paint that picture.
Fraser's link play is excellent when Wilson is playing. Take Wilson out of the test team and I would argue Tizanno should be picked ahead of McReight given his play this year. His added bulk has made all the difference and his more effective in tight play than McReight. Interestingly I read an article yesterday saying Gordon might be made captain given he is so inspirational as captain in a very average Tahs side. While many here don't rate Gordon ahead of Tate, the coach clearly does. If the article is correct it also means that Wilson is not guaranteed his spot though I do expect him to be the starting 8. Gordon was supposably off to Europe at the end of this year but signed for the Wallabies and Tahs for two years. Perhaps someone had a quiet word in his ear.
HogansHeros
Ron Walden (29)
I agree that Wilson and Fraser are much more effective as a unit and maybe as individuals may not look as good as they have. Will be interesting to see what the coach does there.
Yeah he plays his best footy when he has Wilson on. But he went fine at the RWC when Harry wasn’t there. Heck, he nearly won the John EALES medal last year and he had broken thumb.
Until tizzano does what Mcreight has done at test level (injury) he’s not a realistic choice to surpass him. Do like that he’s at least pushing an incumbent.
Agree, wouldnt be surprised to see Van Nek, especially with Kailea playing very limited minutes this year (not really sure why).
Aidan Ross another bolter. Could do worse for a 3rd choice loose head.
Ikitau is quality but a Kerevi / Sua'ali'i centre pairing has appeal at test level. Flook wouldnt let you down either.
AAA is the one we need fit and firing 60mins every lions game - big gap behind him.
Madness, Ikitau is our best centre, daylight second