ONES TO WATCH
Michael Hooper
Position: Back-row Club: NSW Waratahs Age: 27
Throughout Cheika’s term, Michael Hooper has been one of the only beacons of
consistency for Australia. Since making his international debut at the tender age of 20,
the Waratah has become a permanent fixture in the national side, and he has shone since
taking the captaincy from Wallaby great Stephen Moore in 2017. Still only 27, Hooper is
very much in his prime, and he leads from the front with his seemingly tireless engine
seeing him top the tackle and turnover charts more often than not.Kurtley Beale
Position: Utility back Club: NSW Waratahs Age: 30
Although admittedly not as much of a maverick, Kurtley Beale falls into the same category
as Quade Cooper. On his day, he is unplayable and a true match-winner, but he can just
as easily fade into the background. While his versatility will likely go some way to making
up for the loss of Israel Folau, Austrailia would be wise to use him consistently in one
position, because if they get the best out of Beale, they could be on to a winning formula.James O'Connor
Position: Utility back Club: Queensland Reds Age: 29
James O'Connor has had a topsy-turvy career. The youngest Super Rugby player and the
second youngest Wallaby ever has gone from being one of Australia's go-to men to an
outside shout to make it onto the plane to Japan. But despite this change in fortunes,
O'Connor still offers a lot to a World Cup squad. The 29-year-old has a dangerous turn of
pace, his versatility means he can cover almost anywhere across the backline, and,
although perhaps out of practice, he adds another kicking option to Michael Cheika's
squad. Don't be surprised to see him make the trip and feature heavily in the green and
gold once again.Rory Arnold
Position: Lock Club: Brumbies Age: 29
A late bloomer of sorts, 29-year-old Rory Arnold is coming off the
back of an excellent season with the Brumbies. Helping his side reach
the semi-finals of the Super Rugby competition, the lock from Wagga
Wagga has proved to be a strong ball carrier with a soft set of
hands - 8 assists from a second row is not to be sniffed at - and he could
be a crucial cog in the Wallabies’ engine room at this World Cup.42 • WWW.SCRUMMAGAZINE.COM • ISSUE 116 2019
RUGBY WORLD CUP - TOP 10