NICK FARR-JONES; ON the need for a wallaby win

I THINK that Australians are keen enough on sport for there to be room for union, league and Aussie Rules in this country but success for the Wallabies in this World Cup is hugely important for thedevelopment of our game over here.

Child registrations for union went up 300% after we won in 1991 and followers of every sport will support the Wallabies, so long as they are still involved.

The country is buzzing with expectation at the thought of another huge international sports tournament on home soil,especially after the success of the Olympics. But that event took place over 15 days in Sydney while the Rugby World Cup covers 48 matches over six weeks in 12 different towns spread all across the country.

When we won the cup, I think the then coach Bob Dwyer had taken some tough decisions in the 12 and even 24 months prior to the tournament. He brought young blood into the side like Tim Horan and Jason Little, and then later on John Eales, and he gave them all some game time before the tournament.

I wouldn't want to be too critical of the selectors who have done a fair job but I think the Wallabies should have gambled on several youngsters in the squad, players such as Matt Giteau and prop Alastair Baxter, who is going to be a stand-out player of the future. Mat Rogers was given a run in the 13 shirt for the last three months but he should have been handed it 12 months ago.

John Mitchell has done exactly that with New Zealand after taking a young side to the UK and he's had to drop four or five experienced players to make room. It's a gamble but it worked for us back in '91.

Pat Noriega has been left out of the Wallaby squad, which caused a few raised eyebrows, but he has probably seen his best days. Owen Finegan is more questionable. Every side needs to be a blend of youth and experience and it may be that Australia will miss his know-how. Time will tell.

It hasn't been a vintage season for the Wallabies but Australia still have the talent to win the cup if we get the combinations right, but key players will need to be at their best. George Gregan will be the first to admit he is unhappy with his form but that happens to everyone from time to time. Your confidence goes and it takes your vision, judgment and execution with it. He is a senior player and a class act so hopefully he'll get some confidence back during the pool matches.

I think the Wallabies will reach the semi-finals and if we meet the All Blacks (as the seeding suggests) then I can say without doubt we will win. The Kiwis just don't have that hard core of experienced players in their squad and I can easily see an Australia versus England final.

Copyright 2003 SMG Sunday Newspapers Ltd.
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