Dave Rennie confirms International Wallaby selections as England squad announcement nears

Thu, Jun 9, 2022, 3:55 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Wallabies coach Dave Rennie has spoken after announcing his 35-man squad for the upcoming England Series.

Wallabies coach Dave Rennie has confirmed Quade Cooper, Samu Kerevi and Marika Koroibete as the three International selections for the England series.

The Wallabies will name a 35-player squad on Sunday as it was announced they will host the first International event at the new Allianz Stadium when they face South Africa on September 3.

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With discussions brewing about the make-up of the squad, Rennie confirmed what had been expected with the backline trio set to reunite with the national squad.

“It’s probably not that secret anyway but we’ve got Quade, Samu and Marika all coming back,” he told reporters.

“Quade and Samu are here in Sydney just getting medical checks, Marika went straight to Fiji to spend some time with his family and he’ll be back on the weekend.

“It’s exciting. I’m not sure if you saw the (Japanese League One) Final with Panasonic and Marika was phenomenal so he hasn’t lost any of his physicality or his work ethic so we’re excited to see him back.”

The decision comes after Rugby Australia confirmed a change to the infamous 'Giteau Law', allowing three International selections for the national sides.

Given their impact during the Rugby Championship, it was a clear-cut decision according to Rennie, impressed with their performances in Japan.

“You look at Quade, he had a massive impact and a really calming influence, he was so impressive with the group,” he admits.

“I thought he was great with Noah (Lolesio) and even when Noah was playing and Quade wasn’t, he’d sit down at the computer with him and talk through a lot of things and his contribution to meetings was great.

“Samu only played a couple of Tests but was nominated for (World Rugby) Player of the Year which only highlights the impact he had.

“Marika is one of the best wingers in the world. I’m not sure there’s another winger with his work ethic and repeatability. He’s just top gear all day so we’re looking forward to getting that back.”

Rennie left the door open for further players to be selected later in the year, including La Rochelle lock Will Skelton, who was called in for the Spring Tour.

“He’s missed a bit of footy this year but that’s the challenge of guys coming out of France, they go deep into the season and it’s a hell of a long year,” Rennie explained.

“We brought him in last year and he fitted in well. We’re not looking at bringing him in for England series but maybe after that.”

As for any other hints about who will be called into the squad when it gets announced at the end of the week?

“I’ll clarify on Sunday,” Rennie said with a grin.

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