(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Wallabies Welcome Former All Black Aidan Ross Ahead of Rugby Championship Clash
The Wallabies have added former All Black Aidan Ross to their squad, with teammate Zane Nonggorr describing the veteran loosehead prop as almost like an extra coach for the team.
Australia faces one of the strongest forward packs in world rugby when they take on South Africa in their Rugby Championship match in Johannesburg on Sunday at 1 am AEST. Coach Joe Schmidt has Ross ready to make his Wallabies debut, while James O’Connor is set for a surprise return at fly-half, playing his first Test since 2022.
Born in Gosford, Ross moved to Tauranga on New Zealand’s North Island at age eight and went on to play 101 Super Rugby games with the Chiefs. He earned a single cap for the All Blacks against Ireland in 2022 before completing World Rugby’s three-year gap requirement to switch allegiance. Now 29, Ross is eligible to don the Wallabies jersey and could make an immediate impact against the world champions.
Even before taking the field, Ross has impressed his teammates. “Big Horse is a no-nonsense kind of bloke,” said 10-cap Nonggorr. “He’s diligent, keeps you on task, and pushes his name forward for selection. He’s also a great coach—he gave me pointers during training in Sydney, which I really appreciated. He’s someone you love having in the team.”
Nonggorr also highlighted the influence of the Springboks’ pack on the Wallabies’ preparations. “Their depth and intent are something we’re trying to build in our squad,” he said. “The boys can come into the squad and not miss a beat. We’re building really well, and having someone like Aidan helps us get there.”
