Jones puts faith in league recruits
Australia coach Eddie Jones has admitted his selection of Lote Tuqiri on the left wing for Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against Scotland represents a major gamble as it gives the Wallabies a back three composed entirely of former rugby league players.
Tuqiri joins full-back Mat Rogers and Wendell Sailor in a dynamic counter-attacking force, but Jones knows the lack of international rugby experience could be a problem.
Tuqiri only made his debut three months ago, while Rogers and Sailor only began their top-flight union careers last year.
“That is a concern, but they’re just going to have to work that little bit harder to cover it,” said Jones of the combination.
But Jones said he was prepared to make the decision based on the relative form of Tuqiri and incumbent left winger Joe Roff.
“There were some very tough decisions to make and while the likes of Joe Roff might not be starting, he’s certainly still capable of turning the game for us on the bench,” said Jones.
“Joe’s handling wasn’t too flash, his kicking wasn’t up to its normal standard and he just looked a little bit down on confidence.”
With the local media, former Wallabies coach Bob Dwyer, ARU chief John O’Neill and a host of former Test players all calling for the team to improve their performances, the pressure is intense.
But Tuqiri seems unworried.
“This is what I’ve been waiting for and to get a start ahead of someone like Roffy is a great compliment and I have to repay that with a big performance this week,” he said.
“It’s head down and bum up now, and work hard to stay there. I’ve got the chance now and I’ve just got to stay there.
“You have more control of your destiny if you are a starting player. You don’t have that freedom on the bench. So it’s up to me.”
The Australian squad fly to Brisbane this afternoon from their base at Coffs Harbour to prepare for the quarter-finals.
