(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Wallabies Enforcer Will Skelton Ready to Lead Charge Against South Africa
Giant Wallabies lock Will Skelton is embracing his role as the team’s enforcer ahead of Australia’s opening Rugby Championship clash with world champions South Africa at Johannesburg’s intimidating Ellis Park on Sunday (0100 AEDT).
Skelton made his presence felt against the British and Irish Lions, delivering big hits and unsettling opponents while keeping a grin on his face. The Wallabies will look to his physicality and leadership to inspire the squad in South Africa, where they haven’t won since 2011.
“He loves taking it to teams physically and making the game a bit more exciting. Anyone alongside him will follow him into battle,” said fellow Wallabies forward Tom Hooper, who praised Skelton’s enforcer role.
Veteran halfback Nic White, who delayed his retirement due to injury, also played a key part in the Lions series. Hooper likened their dynamic to a “Great Dane and a little Jack Russell”, highlighting the combination of Skelton’s imposing presence and White’s feisty attitude.
“We want to continue that mindset in South Africa. Whoever’s wearing the gold jersey has to play with that spirit,” Hooper said.
Hooper, named man of the match in the Sydney Test, is preparing for a new chapter with UK club Exeter but remains focused on the Wallabies and the goal of returning for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen in my future, but right now my feet are in South Africa, and I’ve got a job to do here,” Hooper said.
With Skelton leading the charge and the Wallabies embracing a fearless, physical approach, Australia will aim to make history at Ellis Park and set the tone for their Rugby Championship campaign.
