Skelton Could Stay with the Wallabies: More Injuries and Pending Decision

Will Skelton Could Extend His Stay with the Wallabies in the Rugby Championship

The Wallabies’ second row, Will Skelton, could extend his participation in the Rugby Championship, confirming his interest in delaying his return to France after Australia’s incredible victory over the Springboks with a score of 38-22. Skelton, along with James O’Connor, shared his impressions with the Australian media, enjoying one of the most significant victories in their careers and one of the best for the Wallabies. Despite the euphoria, the Wallabies will not relax, as the Springboks, seeking revenge after their defeat on a ground where they hadn’t lost to Australia since 1963, will arrive in Cape Town with the intention of recovering.

“I think it was first about enjoying the moment, because it’s been 62 years since we won at Ellis Park,” O’Connor commented. “It’s something special to be a part of it, especially with that comeback, but I think we enjoyed each other’s company; but that’s rugby, you’re already thinking about the next week.”

James O’Connor

Skelton revealed that the team is already analyzing the victory to identify areas for improvement for the next match.

“Many of the guys are already focused on next week. They’re reviewing, everyone’s analyzing things,” Skelton said.

Will Skelton

Skelton played 57 minutes in his third consecutive match with the Wallabies, showing his worth in the tight game before the backs exploded, with Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright standing out.

After overcoming a calf injury that kept him out of the match against Fiji and the first test against the British and Irish Lions, Skelton has provided crucial physical solidity for the Wallabies, proving to be a world-class player. Also, it seems he could extend his participation beyond the second test against the Springboks.

“Yes, I will be on the return flight,” Skelton replied when asked about his immediate future. “Yes, definitely. We are having conversations about what the rest of the Rugby Championship will be like. But yes, we will think about it this week and talk to the coaching staff to see where we can get to.”

Will Skelton

Skelton’s celebration in the band, following Wright’s performance, reflects his satisfaction under Schmidt’s direction and his possible willingness to give up part of his contract with La Rochelle to continue with the Wallabies in the matches against Argentina. However, a balance must be maintained, considering the good relationship with the French club and its coach, Ronan O’Gara. Meanwhile, Australia faces injury concerns for Saturday’s test in Cape Town.

Dylan Pietsch and James Slipper have already returned home. Slipper suffered a concussion, while Pietsch injured his jaw in a tackle. Rhys van Nek and Filipo Daugunu have been called up as replacements, and Hamish Stewart had already been called up as cover for Ben Donaldson. Fortunately, Harry Wilson does not appear to have a serious knee injury. If Wilson can’t play in Cape Town, Rob Valetini could be his replacement.