Teddy Wilson has stepped up in his new role as the starting scrumhalf for the NSW Waratahs this season since taking over the position after team captain and incumbent No. 9 Jake Gordon was sidelined by a medial ligament injury.
The former Australian U20s captain, in his third season with the NSW Waratahs, is embracing the responsibility of directing the team’s attack.
Following the NSW Waratahs’ win over the ACT Brumbies last Saturday, Wilson has provided insight into their game and his adaptation to the No. 9 role.
On Saturday in Round 6 of Super Rugby Pacific, the NSW Waratahs broke a 13-game losing streak against the ACT Brumbies at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.
Their 28-23 win before a home crowd of 20,572, also set the stage for a challenging Round 7 clash against the Hurricanes in Wellington this Friday.
Reflecting on last weekend’s match, Wilson acknowledged the significance of the victory against their long-time rivals.
“It was a special win,” Wilson, the son of former Wallabies captain David Wilson, said.
“Against the Brumbies, it’s always a big derby match, and to finally get one over them at home, in front of our fans, was an incredible feeling.”
A focus for the NSW Waratahs was maintaining energy throughout the game, an area identified for improvement after their Round 5 Queensland Reds loss.
“We spoke about that during the week,” Wilson said.
“We started well against the Reds but dropped off in the second half.
“You can’t win a game just by starting well—you’ve got to play the full 80 minutes.
“We knew the Brumbies would come hard at us in the second half, so it was all about maintaining that high energy.”
Wilson had a key role in one of the team’s standout plays, linking up with teammates to finish a spectacular attacking movement and score the first try.
“It was all set up by the other boys. Isaac [Kailea] made a crucial turnover, and we spotted space down the left edge,” Wilson said.
“Kells (Andrew Kellaway) added pace onto the ball, the forwards and (Taniela) Tupou executed great hands, and Rob [Leota] showed his speed to finish it off.
“I was lucky enough to be backing up on the inside to dot it down.”
With Gordon sidelined Wilson has embraced the opportunity to start in the No. 9 strip with composed performances the past two games.
“It’s been an awesome opportunity to start these last two games, and I’ve loved every moment,” Wilson said.
“I’m just taking it week by week, focusing on the process and making sure I nail my preparation so I can perform to my best ability.”
Wilson has been instrumental in the NSW Waratahs’ ability to close out tight contests, an area in which the team has made significant strides this season.
“These are the moments you want—to be on the field in those pressure situations, whether it’s chasing a win or closing out a game,” he said.
“We’ve had a few tight finishes, and while there’s still room for improvement, we’re learning every week.”
Before his rugby career, Wilson was a promising boxer, winning the Australian Junior Championship in 2016 in the 44kg category.
His time in the ring has significantly influenced his approach to rugby.
“I started boxing when I was about 10, mainly for fitness, but then took it more seriously, got a coach, and competed at national titles,” Wilson said.
“Eventually, I had to choose between boxing and rugby—one required me to stay as light as possible, and the other required me to put on weight.”
Despite choosing rugby, Wilson credits boxing with developing his mental toughness and decision-making skills under pressure.
“The mental side of boxing is unlike anything else. You’re in the ring alone, and that resilience transfers to rugby.
“In high-pressure moments, you need to stay composed—whether you’re dodging punches or making split-second decisions with big forwards charging at you.”
The NSW Waratahs’ attention now turns to their next two games in New Zealand.
The first is a crucial Round 7 encounter against the Hurricanes at Sky Stadium in Wellington this Friday.
Wilson is under no illusions about the challenge ahead.
“The Hurricanes are a quality side with some exceptional players,” he said.
“Going over to New Zealand is always tough, but the boys are really motivated after our win over the Brumbies.
“Good teams back up strong performances, so our focus has already shifted to preparing well and putting in a performance we can be proud of.”
When: at 5.05 pm (AEDT) Friday 28 March 2025
Where: Sky Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand
The game will be televised LIVE and add free on Stan Sport - The Home of Rugby
