How a battling Test batsman inspired Wallabies leader to new heights
By Nick Wright
Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson credits battling Test cricketer Nathan McSweeney with helping him become one of Australia’s sporting leaders.
Wilson will lead the Queensland Reds for the first time on Saturday against the Highlanders, with Tate McDermott rested and Liam Wright nursing another knock to his troublesome shoulder.
Wilson – who played junior cricket with McSweeney – endured a trial by fire in his debut as the Wallabies’ captain, suffering a historic 67-27 demolition at the hands of Argentina.
Harry Wilson leaves the field after the Wallabies were thumped by Argentina.Credit: Getty Images
The star No.8 is the fourth skipper in coach Joe Schmidt’s short tenure, inspiring a promising Spring Tour in the United Kingdom, after Eddie Jones went through six leaders in 2023.
And as Wilson becomes the Reds’ 129th skipper, three-Test opener McSweeney will prepare to lead South Australia in the Sheffield Shield final, determined to end a title drought spanning 29 years.
Ironically, that clash – beginning on March 26 – will be against Queensland.
“Me and Nathan have caught up a bit and had those sorts of discussions trying to learn from each other. What he’s done for South Australia is pretty unbelievable - already winning the one-day championship, and he captained Brisbane Heat to the win last year,” Wilson said.
“We are quite similar. He’s probably not the biggest speaker in the group, he’s very much about leading by his actions and just his work ethic at training.
“He’s such a hard worker and that’s the way he really tries to lead and then lets his words follow, and that’s something we’re quite similar with.”
As with Wilson’s gruelling initiation, McSweeney’s plight against India spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was widely documented before his axing, after averaging just 14.40.
Yet he composed himself to produce key innings for the Brisbane Heat in the BBL, before earning a squad recall for Australia’s tour to Sri Lanka.
“Anyone playing at the top level, you’ve got to be resilient – it’s not always going to be sunshine and rainbows, so that’s definitely something we did speak about,” Wilson said.
“He couldn’t have had a tougher Test debut than facing the best bowler in the world, and my start was over in Argentina, which is quite a tough place to play.
“I know the next time he gets his opportunity he’ll be a lot better prepared for it because of his experience, and that’s something I know I’ve definitely used from my experiences last year.
“You learn from the struggles, and when you go well, to keep improving as a player and leader.”
Wilson confirmed flanker Fraser McReight would not be sidelined for a prolonged period, having suffered a shoulder injury in the Reds’ triumph of the Waratahs.
“I don’t think Fraser will be too far off, it’s sort of a minor injury – which I’m sure he’ll appreciate me saying – but he’ll be back pretty soon for us.”
However, he admitted uncertainty remained around Wright, who continues to consult specialists for an injury which has mystified doctors.