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Fraser McReight reacts to Wallabies captaincy call for Springboks clash
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Fraser McReight will captain the Wallabies for the first time this weekend in the absence of Harry Wilson, but the openside flanker won’t approach this Springboks Test any differently, instead preferring to “let my game do the talking.”
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Wilson captained the Wallabies during their Test series against the British & Irish Lions before leading by example last time out at Emirates Airline Park, scoring a double as the visitors snapped a 62-year drought at the famous Johannesburg venue.
The No. 8 sustained a knee injury while completing a decisive double during the second half and the backrower has since been ruled out of this weekend’s clash in Cape Town, which has seen McReight take over the captaincy.
McReight captained the Australia U20 side in 2019 and has gone on to star at both Super Rugby and Test levels. Former Wallaby Jeremy Paul described McReight as “the best seven in the world currently” during an episode of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby in 2024.
Thursday’s team announcement marked a headline-grabbing milestone moment for McReight, who remains focused on helping the Wallabies claim a second win over the Springboks in as many weeks.
“Feel very privileged and honoured to get the nod of captain this week,” McReight told reporters.
“First and foremost, I’ll probably say I’d much rather be playing with Harry and for him to be leading us out.
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“I also feel very proud to be part of a special club.”
While Wilson has been ruled out, coach Joe Schmidt has called on a proven replacement, with Rob Valetini returning to the starting side – having missed the first and third Tests against the Lions, and later the Boks Test in Johannesburg.
‘Bobby V’ is the two-time reigning John Eales Medallist, which recognises the Wallabies’ best player in a calendar year. McReight and Wilson rounded out the three nominees for the prestigious award last year, which was announced ahead of the Spring Tour.
“He’s someone that everyone thoroughly loves playing with. He’s physical, he’s a great person to have in the team,” McReight explained when asked about Valetini.
“Look at the depth we’ve got in the backrow at the moment. Our captain ‘Wilso’ being out, Bobby steps in. Couldn’t ask for a better replacement there and I reckon he’s roaring to go.”
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Another significant inclusion in the Wallabies side is debutant Corey Toole on the left wing, who has been rewarded for impressive form with the ACT Brumbies over several seasons now. Toole comes into the team in the absence of injured winger Dylan Pietsch.
Toole was among the standouts for the Australia Sevens side at the Paris Olympic Games before returning home, joining the Wallabies in camp ahead of The Rugby Championship. While the speedster wasn’t named to debut, more than a year of fighting for the gold jersey has paid off.
“It’s super special for Tooley. He’s been around the squad for 18 months and has been training and working so hard to get his crack,” McReight added.
“Before this Test, things hadn’t gone his way. Again, look at the depth we’ve got in the back three position, there’s so much depth there.
“This weekend, finally, gets his crack. When his name came up on the projector when the team got named, there was just a huge roar for him and it just shows how much everyone’s happy for him. I think his family’s flown over and it’s just such a special moment for him and his family.”
