In a surprising twist, Carter Gordon is set to rejoin the Wallabies squad, marking a dramatic comeback to rugby after a brief and injury-plagued NRL stint. But here's the catch: his return sparks both excitement and controversy among fans and players alike.
The 24-year-old's journey has been nothing short of eventful. After an impressive eight-Test run at the flyhalf position in the last World Cup, Gordon shocked the rugby world by signing with the Gold Coast Titans. However, his NRL dreams were abruptly halted by a severe spinal injury, delaying his debut until the final round, where he played in the centres.
Now, with his release from the NRL contract, Gordon is poised to don the Wallabies jersey once more, potentially facing Japan on October 25. This reunion with coach Eddie Jones is intriguing, given the controversial decision to select Gordon for the 2023 World Cup campaign, which ended in disappointment.
The squad announcement raised eyebrows as it included Gordon and Tane Edmed but omitted the young Tom Lynagh, who has been battling concussions and other injuries since his impressive showing against the British and Irish Lions. Coach Joe Schmidt emphasized the need for Lynagh's long-term recovery, leaving the door open for Gordon's return.
The Reds, Gordon's new team, already boast a talented lineup with Lynagh, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, and Ben Volvolva. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, the Reds and Wallabies second-rower, playfully questioned the team's social media post announcing Gordon's signing, asking who would play the flyhalf position.
Reds coach Les Kiss, who will take the reins from Schmidt next year, envisions Gordon as a versatile player, capable of filling the flyhalf, fullback, and inside centre roles. Gordon, a Sunshine Coast native and new father, expressed his enthusiasm for staying in Australia, turning down lucrative overseas rugby contracts.
His return to rugby is a strategic move by Rugby Australia, offering Gordon a two-year window to prove his worth for the 2027 World Cup. This decision highlights the organization's long-term vision for player development.
The upcoming tour will see the Wallabies face Japan, England, Italy, Ireland, and France, with overseas players like Will Skelton, Len Ikitau, and James O'Connor joining after the second Test. The squad also welcomes back Dylan Pietsch from a jaw injury and Andrew Kellaway, who missed the Bledisloe Cup Tests.
And this is where it gets even more intriguing: the Wallabies squad features a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, with Gordon's inclusion adding a layer of complexity and potential. Will his return be a triumphant comeback story, or will it stir up more controversy? The rugby world awaits with bated breath.
