The Wallabies' search for a consistent No. 10 jersey wearer continues, with the latest twist involving the enigmatic Noah Lolesio. The former ACT Brumbies pivot, who was backed by All Blacks legend Dan Carter as the man for the job, is now a surprise candidate for a recall to the international stage. This comes as a result of an injury to Ben Donaldson, who was set to start at fly-half in the upcoming Tests against France.
Lolesio's potential return is an intriguing development, especially given his recent absence from the Wallabies' lineup. He hasn't played for the national team in over a year, and his last appearance was during the Lions Series in July 2026. This extended absence has raised questions about his form and consistency, which could be a concern for the team's management.
The Wallabies' coach, Joe Schmidt, revealed that Lolesio was considered as an option to join the matchday 23, despite not training with the team. This decision highlights the team's willingness to explore all possibilities, even if it means reaching out to players who haven't been part of the squad for a while. Schmidt's statement also underscores the team's flexibility and adaptability in the face of unexpected injuries.
The No. 10 jersey has been a source of fluctuation for the Wallabies, with several players taking on the role throughout the season. Carter Gordon made a brief appearance in the jersey last November, but his return from the NRL was cut short due to a calf strain. This injury setback further emphasizes the challenges the team faces in finding a reliable and consistent player for the fly-half position.
Declan Meredith, who is set to become Wallaby number 997, is now in the spotlight. He will start in the Test against France, showcasing his potential as a playmaker. Meredith's recent breakout campaign in the Super Rugby Pacific and his leadership role with the ACT Brumbies make him a strong contender for the No. 10 jersey. His ability to link up with team captain Ryan Lonergan in the halves could be a game-changer for the Wallabies.
Schmidt's reflection on the 'curse of the 10 jersey' is a telling statement. The team's struggle to find continuity at the fly-half position has been a recurring theme, with players coming and going, and injuries playing a significant role. This curse has hindered the team's progress, and finding a reliable player who can provide steady performances is a priority for the management.
In conclusion, the Wallabies' search for a consistent No. 10 jersey wearer continues to be a challenging task. The team's willingness to explore unexpected options, such as Lolesio's potential return, highlights the urgency of finding a reliable player. With injuries and form fluctuations affecting the team's performance, the management must make strategic decisions to ensure the Wallabies' success on the international stage.
