Traits and skills Australian U18s coach wants to see in Waratahs, Reds U18s battle
The future of Australian rugby isn’t just big, athletic and skilled - it’s smart. What Australian selectors are looking for in our generation next players in the Waratahs v Reds U18 rematch.
There’s the satisfaction of a cleansweep on the line for Waratahs in their rematch with the Queensland Reds at Concord on Saturday - and potentially a spot in the Australia U18 pony squad for top players from both clubs.
The match will take on a new intensity for the best U18s players in NSW and Queensland with selectors watching closely as they look to put together a squad of players to eventually be culled down to a team to take on New Zealand later this year.
Australian coach Shannon Fraser was impressed by what he saw in the Waratahs win over the Reds last Saturday in a match which could have gone either way but was eventually taken out by the Tahs.
This weekend they are hosting the rematch with Fraser expecting another good battle before he and selections turn their attention to youngsters from the Brumbies, Rebels and Force who are playing in a separate series.
“The pony squad are players of national interest but there’s no definitive number yet,’’ Fraser said.
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Players will be monitored at schools, clubs and in association games before a squad of 40 will meet in a training camp ahead of matches against New Zealand and a Barbarians team later this year.
“What’s good is this gets them to play high level footy in their formative development,’’ Fraser said.
“Tests matches and representing their country provides great experience and connection for boys from across the country and pride in wearing the Australian colours.
“Hopefully we will have guys debuting at the Wallabies who could have 16-18 age test matches under their belts.’’
Fraser said he wants a good assortment of skills and players in the squad.
“We want athletic players who can go for it on a physical level, that’s important,’’ he said.
“You want a selection of talent and skill which is important plus smart rugby players with anticipation and vision.
“Game controllers, physical tight fives, athletic outside backs.
“The fact we have players in our pathway, 18 to 20, who have played multiple sports, that's also a strength we need to harness.’’
The Waratahs will host the Reds at 2.30pm at Concord Oval on Saturday
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