Flyhalf Noah Lolesio believes he’s ready to be the guy who leads the Wallabies into the future as he returns to the Test arena with a balanced perspective.
Lolesio has been in and out of the gold jersey since his debut in 2020, notching up 22 caps.
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He found himself the starting flyhalf for the 2021 and 2022 home Test seasons before being replaced by veterans Quade Cooper and Bernard Foley.
After missing the squad in 2023, the 24-year-old has been backed by Joe Schmidt as the leading playmaker against Wales and South Africa.
“It's been awesome. Not being involved at all last year and being straight back into it this year, it's been quite an adjustment but at the same time, I've been really enjoying it so far," Lolesio told reporters about his return to the Wallabies.
“I know the results of the last two games haven’t gone our way but I'm representing my country at fly half so I'm just trying to keep things into perspective and as games go on, we know we can improve.
“There were good improvements into that second game against South Africa but we know we didn’t get the job done…but it’s been good, I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Perspective is critical for Lolesio, the young playmaker who has been destined for big things since the Junior Wallabies.
“Playing flyhalf for the Wallabies is up there pressure-wise (with anything),” he admits.
“I’m just keeping it real simple for myself and putting into perspective that it’s just a game of footy at the end of the day and Joe’s been great too and harping on to keep backing himself in whatever on the field…hopefully these next few weeks we can show that."
Having gone through some adversity with selection, it’s allowed Lolesio to focus on what matters to him off the field, rather than solely on what happens on it.
It helps to have a coach at clubland like Stephen Larkham, who is part of the reason why that ten jersey is held in such regard and can help the playmaker in his approach to the game.
“‘Bernie’ has been real supportive ever since he’s been back at the Brums,” Lolesio said.
“I’ve just taken the approach when I’m with the boys I’m switched on and putting all my energy and focus into Rugby but then probably what I’ve got right this year is getting away from footy as well, refreshing and refuelling the tank because I know previously the last few years, I’ve put pressure on myself as young tens do, especially internationally.
“I’ve gone on with that approach is Rugby is what I do but not who I am…trying to find that true balance, especially in Argentina or overseas can be hard so really trying to put all my focus and energy on footy when we’re on but when we have days off, getting the mind off things and enjoy life."
