The Wallabies’ disastrous Rugby World Cup campaign is still haunting Will Skelton, with the towering locks returning to national team duty in a desperate attempt to make amends for Britain and Ireland’s Grand Slam tour of Australia.
Skelton captained Australia at last year’s World Cup in France, but played only one match at the tournament due to injury.
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His absence hurt the Wallabies, who failed to reach the knockout stages under then-coach Eddie Jones.
France-based Skelton has not played at all for Australia this year under Jones’ replacement, Joe Schmidt, but the pair have kept in touch with the 32-year-old forward, who has now been named in the Wallabies squad and hopes to play against England on Sunday. Morning (AEDT) at Twickenham.
“The way we finished (at the World Cup) was very disappointing and difficult for me as captain,” Skelton said.
“I got injured at the World Cup, so I returned to my team (La Rochelle) and was injured three times during the season.
“When it comes to motivation, it’s always high. It’s never satisfying. Playing for Australia is always there.
“I always get that itch when I’m watching TV without being involved and I want to help as much as I can.
“The team is building in the right direction and I’m excited to add what I can and look forward to being involved.”
Skelton has been impressed by what he has seen since arriving at the Wallabies camp this week.
“You can already see the attention to detail, the speed of the work and the crash work as well – it’s something we are trying to be proud of, especially against a class team like England this week,” he said.
“You can see how much conversation happens (at camp) and how many standards are set and achieved just by participating. We will work towards this. “It will be a good test.”
Skelton said he had not spoken to Schmidt about the captaincy, a role given to number 8 Harry Wilson in recent Tests.
“With a new team and a new coach, (Schmidt) has his own process, but just having experienced players in the squad helps the whole group and I want to add as much value as I can. “I’m here to add.” he said,
