Michael Hooper is impressed with the depth of talent that backrow has to offer, and is happy to hear overseas lock Will Skelton is keen on a return.
The Wallabies have always had a dominating backrow: G. Smith, Kefu, Finegan, Pocock, Palu and Elsom to just name a few.
However, captain Michael Hooper has been really impressed with the current backrower’s commitments to the team on and off the field.
Pete Samu has been announced in the starting line-up against the Pumas this weekend, and Hooper is excited to see what he can do now that he has more minutes.
“There’s a lot to like about Pete in terms of versatility he brings to the back row,” Hooper revealed to reporters on Friday.
“Not only can he cover all positions but, on the ground, and turn over positions he’s great, ball carries are excellent and good presence around the tackle as well.
“Now he’s got more minutes to do more of the same. It’s a good reward for someone that has been adding a lot for us whilst on the bench."
In addition to Samu, Sean McMahon is returning with a position off the bench.
“He has been training really hard off the field in the last couple of weeks being back.
“I believe he brings a really good dynamic to the team in the form of real aggression and a super work rate,” said Hooper.
The current squad features some huge names in the backrow; Hooper, Valetini, Samu, McMahon, Swinton, Leota, McReight, Wilson, Naisarani and Salakaia-Loto.
Competition for not only a starting spot, but a place on the bench is fierce. However, Hooper is excited with what competition amongst players brings to the team.
“Everyone trains harder when you have some direct competition there.
“The great thing about competition and the depth that’s been created is, you’ve got plenty of options there and that’s going to do well for us in the next couple of years.
“If someone goes down then we need that position to be field and field well.” Said Hooper in his interview on Friday.
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Another player to possibly add to the mix is Will Skelton, who said he would welcome a return to the Test set-up
His former Waratahs teammate Hooper is excited to hear that the big man is keen on a return.
“It has been a long time since he has been in the jersey and it is great to hear that he is still keen to be involved.
“He has the ability to change the game with just his size,
“Love Big Willy, he is great to have in the team” Hooper finished with.
