Just when fans thought they’d seen the last of veteran scrumhalf Nic White in Wallabies gold, he’s back in action—barely a week after announcing his retirement.
The 35-year-old has made a swift U-turn and is officially back on the squad for Australia’s two upcoming Rugby Championship clashes against world champions South Africa.
One Last Hurrah Turns Into More
White had originally bowed out of international rugby following a stellar performance in the final British and Irish Lions Test, where Australia stunned the tourists 22-12.
That match was meant to be his swan song, but injuries within the Wallabies camp forced a change of plans.
With Jake Gordon ruled out, White has stepped back in to help the team, joining Tate McDermott and uncapped youngster Ryan Lonergan as coach Joe Schmidt’s options at scrumhalf.
A Bruising Lions Series Leaves Wallabies Scrambling
Australia’s hard-fought 2-1 series loss to the Lions came at a cost.
A string of injuries has shaken up the Wallabies squad ahead of back-to-back Tests in Johannesburg and Cape Town, scheduled for August 16 and 23.
Among the key names missing due to injury are Allan Alaalatoa, Tom Lynagh, and Harry Potter.
Adding to the shake-up, hooker David Porecki officially retired this week, leaving Schmidt with even more gaps to fill.
Fresh Faces Get the Call-Up
To plug the holes, Schmidt has called up three uncapped players—including scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan, winger Corey Toole, and newly signed Reds prop Aidan Ross, a former All Black.
There are also fresh inclusions from the Queensland Reds camp, with Josh Flook, Josh Nasser, and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto joining the squad. The mix of experience and new blood aims to strike the right balance for what promises to be a tough two-week campaign in South Africa.
Coach Schmidt Stays Realistic but Hopeful
Schmidt acknowledged the road ahead won’t be easy.
“It’s great to keep the core group together, but we know how tough it’s going to be playing South Africa twice on their home turf,” he said.
While he’s pleased with the growth the team has shown so far, the coach stressed that there’s still a long grind ahead to get to where they want to be.
Full Squad Breakdown
Forwards:
Angus Bell, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Nick Frost, Langi Gleeson, Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Will Skelton, James Slipper, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson
Backs:
Ben Donaldson, Tane Edmed, Josh Flook, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Ryan Lonergan, Tate McDermott, James O’Connor, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Corey Toole, Nic White, Tom Wright
Fans Weigh In on White’s Return
Nic White has always been a divisive figure in the rugby world—loved by some, not so much by others.
Whether you think he’s one of the most irritating players or just the ultimate team man, there’s no denying his gritty, fiery presence on the field.