18-year-old Max Jorgensen’s dream season has continued after his stunning selection for the Rugby World Cup squad.
Jorgensen was arguably the biggest bolter from Eddie Jones’ 33-player squad named on Thursday.
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If he gets onto the field, Jorgensen would be the youngest ever Australian to debut at a Rugby World Cup if named to play in any game at the tournament, set to turn 19 on September 2, just days before the opener against Georgia.
Fellow squad member Jordan Petaia holds the record, debuting at 19 years, 6 months and 21 days against Uruguay in 2019
The teenage sensation has always been on Jones’ radar, including as part of a ‘not selected due to injury’ group for the Bledisloe Cup.
It came after Jorgensen suffered a long-term MCL injury during the Waratahs’ defeat to the Crusaders in May.
“He’s a player of the future of Australian Rugby so we want to give him the opportunity to go to this World Cup,” Jones said to reporters.
“He’ll contribute. Every time he gets on the field, he’ll play well for us but then he’ll take that experience onto the World Cup
“…One of the reasons (he’s picked) is that he’s such a versatile player, he can play fullback or wing equally."
Jorgensen’s breakout season was recognised with the Chris Whittaker Medal for Rookie of the Year at the Waratahs’ end-of-season awards.
Whilst he still remains a couple of weeks away from full fitness, Jorgensen was confident he could make an impact if called upon.
”It was unreal, it was a dream come true," Jorgensen told Stan Sport whilst holding Wally as the youngest squad member.
"I was at home by myself so sort of celebrating by myself for a bit there…I always had hope, but it was a tough decision, between the non-surgical and the surgical.
“I honestly did what was best for my knee by not getting surgery on it and here I am today.
"I know I'll be ready, especially coming off the back of my first Super season.
“I know I have the skill. I'll back myself and I'll be ready."
