After watching both NRL and Super Rugby over the weekend, it’s clear there is significant talent coming through from both. But only one of the codes actually allows this talent to sufficiently grow.
Think of some of the names that are being floated in the media such as Reece Walsh, Joseph Sua’ali’i, Lachlan Galvin, Isaiya Katoa and Dylan Edwards. These are fantastic athletes being plastered all over media outlets Australia-wide.
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They are household names as a result of being able to play off-the-cuff football while staying within the structure of the team environment.
Channel Nine’s Andrew Johns made a comment about Reece Walsh copping it from the media about his mistakes and he simply couldn’t grasp the excitement he brings being questioned.
Let these kids play to their structures, but have a “play what’s in front of you” card as well.
In the other rugby code, there is some serious talent coming through and it needs to be allowed to flourish. Unfortunately, most names are not heard of, but their skill sets have shown to be a marketer’s dream if coaches and administrators can get the formula right.
The names are well known in rugby circles, due to the limited exposure received, but it is evident that Australian rugby is finally recognising and retaining some young talent that may rival the idols of the 1990s and 2000s.
Some of the names are gaining exposure and an audience, but not to the same level as their league counterparts as they appear to be over-coached into “structures” that mask their raw talent.
A few names that jump out are Charlie Cale, Corey Toole, Matt Faessler, Hunter Paisami, Josh Flook, Max Jorgensen, Angus Bell, Tamati Tua, Tom Lynagh, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Darby Lancaster and it goes on.
Yes, rugby has an immense first-phase structure and an issue with ball-in-play time, but these guys need opportunities to play.
If you look at the times when rugby was once a hugely popular sport in this country, it drew in some athletes who were almost always ‘off-the-cuff’ style players.
The likes of David Campese, Matt Giteau, and Stephen Larkham were eye-catching players in their day that might’ve been underappreciated and smothered in the current environment that prioritises team system.
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These guys played what was in front of them and simply would not be allowed to have that luxury nowadays.
The Blues-Reds game on Saturday was absolutely spectacular from both sides.
The “Junkyard Dog” Tim Ryan showed some immense skills in his debut and got past multiple Blues players and will certainly be added to the list of young talent coming through.
In his post-match interview, he mentioned words of encouragement from Les Kiss to the tune of “be yourself”.
That’s what he did.
Sure, now oppositions will focus on him and watch his quick feet, but it’s a time to let the big dog eat.
On the flip side of this particular game, the Blues played outstanding rugby to close the game out.
The new Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has signalled an intention to use a Kiwi methodology of structured counter-attack. That was on show in the last five minutes of that match. Although it was manic, you could see there was control and brilliant skills.
These skills are seen week in and out in the NRL and there are some players in rugby who have the same instincts but seem to be coached out of them or simply don’t have the “hands” (please hold the ball).
If Australian rugby can keep a solid base of players who have gained exposure but are continually improving – Noah Lolesio, Rob Valetini, Harry Wilson, Fraser McReight, Tate McDermott, Len Ikitau, Nick Frost, Dave Porecki, and others – there is some real ability to come through.
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It has been a tumultuous time for rugby in this country, but the time is now to ignite these youngsters and bring them through.
Eddie Jones went all in last year and it was the worst move ever, although I’m sure he’ll take credit when Peter Horne and the team eventually get it right, but it has to be a mixture.
What is evident is that the talent is here and it’s now and it’s the best we’ve had since 2003.
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Let’s let them sing and bring exposure to us rugby-loving folk who still embrace these unique talents