Junior Wallabies coach Nathan Grey is eager to see teenage sensation Max Jorgensen feature at next month’s U20 World Championship as he furthers his case for national honours.
Jorgensen was named in Grey’s squad for next week’s two-Test series against New Zealand, however, he will remain with the NSW Waratahs in their push to the finals.
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The 18-year-old was also included in Eddie Jones’ first Wallabies squad and has thrived since his inclusion, guiding the Waratahs to victory over Fijian Drua with three try assists.
The U20 Championships will occur in South Africa while the Wallabies prepare to face the Springboks in Pretoria on July 9.
Given his remarkable talent, there’s little doubt Jorgensen will be in South Africa barring injury but what team remains up in the air.
“I’m the Junior Wallabies coach so I reckon it’d be better to be here with us,” Grey said with a smile when asked about where Jorgensen should play.
“Eddie’s (Jones) identified him as a great player. He’s been playing some great football and his development is at the forefront of any decision-making.
“Whatever the coaches believe is at the best for Max’s development, all the coaches including myself are super happy to support that.”
Jorgensen wasn’t looking too far ahead, leaving the decision with Jones as he prepares to name his squad for the Rugby Championship next month.
“I’ve had a little chat to ‘Greysie’ about (U20 Championships) but it’s mostly up to Eddie really whether he wants me to play with the 20s or go on tour with the Wallabies,” Jorgensen said last week.
“Either way I’m happy, if I don’t get selected in the Wallabies, I’ll be down about it but I’ll still have the 20s which will be good fun.
“I went on Junior Wallabies camp last year so met most of the boys there and there are some ‘Tahs blokes there like Teddy (Wilson) and (Jack) Bowen who I’m really good mates with and have some good connections with.”
Jorgensen isn’t the only Junior Wallaby who has caught Eddie’s attention, with Tom Lynagh included as part of an injured list for April’s camp.
The pair alongside Force prop Marley Pearce won’t make the trip to Wellington, with Reds centre Taj Annan’s status up in the air if he is picked this week against the Highlanders.
“Super takes priority at the moment and those guys that are playing Super Rugby and getting good minutes into them, it’s great for their development,” Grey said.
“If it all works out and those guys are able to come over for the second game in New Zealand or the World Championships in Africa, we’ll be happy to welcome them. The communication between the clubs has been excellent and the players' welfare and learning is at the forefront.”
