The first Wallabies squad of 2022 has been confirmed as Dave Rennie prepares for a major international calendar.
There were no major surprises, with the top three clubs in Super Rugby Pacific - Brumbies, Reds, Waratahs - making up the majority of selections.
Set to come together on the Gold Coast next month ahead of England's arrival in July, Rugby.com.au looks at the key talking points to come out of the 40-man squad.
1.Another year wiser
In comparing this squad to the one that congregated in Coogee last April, there is a distinct rise in experience across the board.
There were 14 uncapped players in 2021, with the Test cap experience just over 500, 100 of which were James Slipper.
Sure having Michael Hooper back will always bump that number up but seeing players such as Darcy Swain, Len Ikitau and Andrew Kellaway, who had yet to debut, come into this camp with double-digit caps reflects the growth undertaken over the past 12 months.
There are still eight debutants in this year's first squad, but they are much wiser heads who are very familiar with the national set-up such as Jed Holloway, Dave Porecki and Cadeyrn Neville well experienced
2. Dominance rewarded
The Brumbies' ongoing success was rightfully rewarded as they contribute 15 players to this squad.
This is the same amount as the Queensland Reds, Force and Rebels combined.
It highlights the growing depth across the board in Canberra when players like Neville and the Lonergan brothers still find themselves on selectors' radar despite limited game time whether down to injury or luxury of depth in their position.
Looking at the main omissions, you could seriously make an argument they may have deserved more than a full XV of representatives, with Scott Sio, Andy Muirhead and Irae Simone missing out after strong seasons.
3. To’omua's position is clear
Speaking of omissions, arguably the biggest was Rebels playmaker Matt To'omua, a stalwart of the Wallabies over the past decade.
The Rebels' disappointing form had a bit to play with this, however, a disagreement on where he is best suited has not helped his case.
Dave Rennie has made it clear he sees To'omua as a 12 rather than flyhalf, stating "He's playing a fair bit of 10 at the moment, and we see him more as a 12. We've got a lot of midfielders who we think are going pretty well as well."
The challenge has been laid down to find improvements in his game ahead of July. Whether this statement makes To'omua and the Rebels re-consider where he is best suited remains yet to be seen.
4. Undeniable
This squad saw a number of often under-rated players recognised for their consistent performances.
Jock Campbell is the best example of this, shining for the Reds at the back.
Rennie believes this is where he is suited heading forward, embracing the competition between Campbell and Jordan Petaia heading forward.
Another one is Toni Pulu, a player who Rennie knows very well from his time with the Chiefs. Pulu has always seemingly been on the verge of selection but injuries at the worst time saw him overlooked for players who went on to take their chance.
5. On the rise
Darren Coleman set out the task of having the Waratahs once again dominate the national side. After just one month they are well and truly on their way.
The Waratahs find themselves with ten selections, more than last year's Super Rugby AU champions Reds. Whilst in the past you may feel like it was undeserved, you can make a fair case for all ten to be selected.
The key bolter comes in Ben Donaldson, adding to his breakout 12 month period. Whilst he will deal with a calf injury for the next couple of weeks, Rennie liked what he saw from the young playmaker, particularly his change of pace, believing he is a talent that can be moulded.
All of their eligible starting tight five were named, with Jed Holloway and Harry Johnson-Holmes deserving of their call-ups after long stints in the International wilderness.
With the likes of Will Harris and Will Harrison knocking on the door, it reflects the rapid rise the side have made under Coleman. The key for the Waratahs is the build and consolidate ahead of July's England series.
