Wallaby Watch: Analysing the centre options for Joe Schmidt's opening Test against Wales

Tue, Jun 4, 2024, 5:07 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson

The Wallabies' opening Test of 2024 is just over a month away as players look to press their claims.

July 6 will mark Joe Schmidt's first game in charge as the Wallabies take on Wales in Sydney.

Catch every game of Super Rugby Pacific LIVE, ad-free and on demand on Stan Sport.

A new coach brings fresh opportunities for players to impress as they look to stand out in Super Rugby Pacific.

With the regular season completed, Rugby.com.au presents 'Wallaby Watch' - a series breaking down positional groups ahead of the Test season, looking at the centres.

It will be broken into two sections: players selected at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and those looking to break into the squad in 2024.

Maintain their spot (Players selected in 2023 RWC)

Samu Kerevi

Kerevi is one of several overseas Wallabies pressing their claims after playing a big role at last year’s World Cup.

The centre is a powerhouse on his day, although like others, is waiting to here what Joe Schmidt will do regarding an overseas policy

Izaia Perese

Perese has been in and out of the Waratahs starting side in 2024, having committed his future overseas.

Like Kerevi, Perese provides a real point of difference with his carry, but questions remain on how his decision to head to England will factor in his selection.

Lalakai Foketi

Foketi has returned back to his best after overcoming a significant neck injury to start the season.

He will have to ward off significant competition in the centres to retain his spot as the incumbent inside centre.

Pushing for selection (Those who missed 2023 RWC)
Hamish Stewart

Stewart has been a reliable star in Super Rugby over the past years, stepping up for the Force.

He is one of the best defensive centres in Australian Rugby and has the skillset to thrive if called upon

Filipo Daugunu

Daugunu’s switch to the centres has brought the best out of the Rebel in his new environment.

His versatility is massive for the former Red, looking for a recall after last featuring in 2021.

Josh Flook

Flook has risen the ranks to become one of the most exciting young backs in Australian Rugby.

Recently re-signing with the Reds for another season, he will be eager to add his first cap after getting the debut call-up into national camp last year.

Hunter Paisami

Paisami is back at his best after powering the Reds into the quarter-finals.

The inside centre has emerged as one of the form players in the competition and has put him firmly on the radar for a call-up

Len Ikitau

Ikitau has been a key reason behind the Brumbies' success over the past years and continues to play at a high level.

The Brumby was a surprise omission at last year’s World Cup and has done everything to ensure he won’t be overlooked in 2024.

Ollie Sapsford

Sapsford has been Mr Reliable for the Brumbies, finding himself a key member of their 23.

The Kiwi-born back is eligible through his parents and has already taken his first steps towards a gold jersey after appearing for Australia A last year.

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