Waratahs captain Jake Gordon is relishing the opportunity to be back in the Wallabies squad as he looks to make up for lost time.
Gordon is one of only three from the NSW side in the squad, a reflection of their tough Super Rugby season.
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However, the 30-year-old shone behind an injury-decimated pack to catch the eye of Joe Schmidt and earn a recall.
Whilst the call-up is treasured by Gordon, his ambition in the gold jersey is clear.
“It’s why you’re here and it’s always exciting (to be picked)," Gordon told Rugby.com.au
“Whatever happens during the year is a great opportunity and I see the next 18 months as an exciting time, especially if we play some really good Rugby, I think we can change the momentum of Rugby.
“I was definitely thrilled to get that email but I want to play some games.”
Gordon has found himself in and out of the Wallabies squad since his debut against Italy in 2018.
Sporadic appearances off the bench were rewarded in 2021 with a debut start against France, before becoming a regular under Dave Rennie towards the end of 2022.
“Yeah I don’t think I’ve played as well as I would liked to have so yeah you could say there’s some unfinished business," he admits.
“It’s a hard one because you don’t want to put too much pressure on yourself but I am really excited for what’s ahead.
“I think what’s important is I train well, I’ve got two other halfbacks who are great competition but I’m excited for what this year could be.”
Gordon fell off the radar in 2023 and took up a Joker deal in Toulon before a concussion ended his time before it started.
The ambition of a fresh change lingered for the Waratahs captain, asking for a release from his Rugby Australia.
"There was a little bit of back and forth over the last sort of month or so," Gordon said in May.
"What they said to me is basically I need to honour my contract here. I think it's probably the right thing to do at the moment."
The decision to deny Gordon showed that Schmidt still had plans for the scrumhalf, who reflected on the situation as one by one kids came up and asked for his autograph on anything with a free patch.
“I’m optimistic and excited for what’s ahead. I think that’s the best way to explain it," he said.
“This is a really good opportunity for myself and the group to play some really good Rugby.
“...Joe was pretty clear that we need to change some of the behaviours and how we want to play.
“He doesn’t let you off. It is repetitive, which is great. Even when we’re walking through, there’s a genuine attention to detail that if you don’t do right, he’ll definitely let you know about it."
