Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt believes winger Corey Toole’s time will come as he backs Dylan Pietsch to start against New Zealand.
Pietsch will make his debut start in Saturday’s second Bledisloe Test against the All Blacks after a wrist injury to Marika Koroibete.
Koroibete was hampered by the injury during the first Bledisloe in Schmidt’s eyes, flaring up during the flight to Wellington and eventually ruling him out.
“It swelled up on the flight across. It wasn’t too bad post-game, the morning after it was pretty uncomfortable…we had it scanned and it’s quite inflamed and uncomfortable so he’s not ready to play,” Schmidt said.
“He wasn’t fully right to train and do any contact so if he’s not right today, it’s a risk for the weekend and Dylan Pietsch had done well off the bench.
“We’ve got confidence in the squad and we’re trying to grow the squad and depth so it’s an opportunity for somebody else to step up and give it their best shot.”
Schmidt admits he needs to have conversations with Koroibete’s Japanese club Panasonic Wild Knights to determine his availability for the Spring Tour.
The powerful winger has not featured on an end-of-year tour since his move to Japan, which coincides with the opening rounds of the Rugby League One competition.
“That’s a discussion between Marika, myself and his Japanese club which won’t happen until after this block when we have a window to review and follow up with guys like Marika,” Schmidt said.
This could open the door for Toole to come in for his debut after two strong seasons for the Brumbies.
Toole’s speed is a major x-factor and whilst Schmidt revealed Darby Lancaster had him beat for speed throughout the week, he backs Toole to continue his growth in the 15-a-side game after emerging on the radar with the Sevens.
“Corey’s opportunity will come. I had a great meeting with Corey yesterday talking through his game and he’s got a few priorities that he’s working on,” Schmidt explained.
“…Corey hasn’t really had that much experience. He’s come from the Sevens program and had a season with the Brumbies so he’s still learning the 15s game even positionally.
“We’re trying to fast track and he’s very fast so hopefully that will get eaten up quite quickly.”
