Wilson set to start in third Test against England

Wed, Jul 13, 2022, 7:57 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
The Wallabies faced off against England in the second Test at Suncorp Stadium.

Queensland Reds backrower Harry Wilson is set to start in his first game of 2022 as the Wallabies prepare for the third Test against England.

The hosts will confirm their team on Thursday afternoon, with Wilson set to be named in the back row for the deciding Test.

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Wilson missed selection for the first two Tests as coach Dave Rennie opted for Rob Leota to partner Michael Hooper and Rob Valetini in the backrow.

“There’s not much there, Harry’s worked really hard,” Rennie said before the first Test.

“I thought Harry was excellent against the other Australian sides early, not the same impact against the New Zealand sides"

However, a disappointing defeat in Brisbane and a bevy of injuries in the second-row have seen the 22-year-old on the verge of a return.

Wilson last featured for the Wallabies in August 2021, coming off the bench against the All Blacks after starting all three games in July's France series.

He was left at home for the Spring Tour, telling Rugby.com.au at the start of the year it was needed physically and mentally.

“Obviously last year with the Wallabies was a bit frustrating being in and out but I guess it’s almost been a blessing coming back here with the Reds and have some time to work on the few things they want me to improve in, which is some acceleration and footwork stuff,” he said

“It was good to ease off the body as well, been playing a lot of footy against men so it was good to have a couple of months off and rebuild to hopefully get ready for another big year.

“It wasn’t the best year for me but I’ve loved being back here with the Reds and loving footy.

“I think the mental break was one of the best things for me…I wasn’t used to two years of basically footy straight around and not much of a break. Having that time with some of your best mates here at the Reds and normal life with friends and family has been great.

“You realise how much you miss footy so it’s great to have that break. We’re around 30 days away from round one and I don’t think I’ve been counting it down more than this.”

It showed in Wilson's performances in 2022, claiming his maiden Stan Pilecki Medal.

Wilson led Super Rugby Pacific for carries (202) along with finishing in the top ten for metres carried (1,036), offloads (17) and tackles (158).  

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