Schmidt bets on future: Wallabies without O’Connor, right decision?

Schmidt bets on youth in the Wallabies

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has made a bold decision by selecting the team for the upcoming matches, prioritizing young talents over the experience of established players. This choice, which excludes figures like James O’Connor, has generated debate about whether it is the right strategy for the team’s future. Schmidt has bet on Noah Lolesio, Ben Donaldson, and Tom Lynagh, indicating a generational shift in the fly-half position. Despite the possibility of having the experience of players like O’Connor or Bernard Foley, Schmidt has made it clear that he trusts these young players to lead the attack.

“We’ve invested in three players in that position and we feel that, trying to balance things, we’re going to keep investing in those players,” Schmidt stated.

Joe Schmidt

Schmidt’s decision is reminiscent of former coach Eddie Jones’ approach at the 2023 World Cup, where he selected Carter Gordon and Donaldson as opening options. The bet on youth is clear, but the success of this strategy will be seen in the coming weeks.

Noah Lolesio appears to be Schmidt’s first choice for the opening position, at least for the series against the Lions. His improvement in the 2024 season and his performance in the 2025 Super Rugby Brumbies position him as the main candidate, according to the coach. In other positions, Schmidt has rewarded the good performance of Langi Gleeson and Tom Hooper, who have shown a consistent level. In addition, he has opted for the experience of Nic White in the scrum-half position. The inclusion of Will Skelton in the blocking quartet was predictable, given his size and track record. Skelton, motivated by the opportunity, brings leadership and experience to the team.

“He’s physically huge on the field, but also what he brings off it, in terms of his leadership and experience; the way he is able to galvanize a group is very valuable,” commented Allan Alaalatoa about Skelton.

Allan Alaalatoa

Nick Champion De Crespigny, a lesser-known player, has been called up after his outstanding performances for the Western Force. He will have the opportunity to impress Schmidt in the match against the Lions. Schmidt’s strategy focuses on the future of the Australian attacking game. History will determine whether this decision was correct.