Former Test skipper Stirling Mortlock says the Wallabies’ start to the international season is the best in a decade and it could be the year they finally win back the Bledisloe Cup.
Speaking ahead of the second Test against France at Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium on Saturday night, Mortlock feels there are big things ahead for the current crop of Wallabies.
He liked what he saw in their opening 50-23 romp over Les Bleus in Brisbane last weekend.
“It’s probably the best start I’ve seen the Wallabies play in a first-up game in at least 10 years,” said Mortlock, who captained Australia 39 times.
The former Test centre said he was marvelling at the talent of Wallabies game-breaking fullback Israel Folau and the way he continued to take his play to new levels.
“He seems like a guy who has full confidence in what his capabilities are and works tirelessly.
“I haven’t seen a person before who’s crossed codes and adapted so well to his positional play.”
The 37-year-old was impressed by the culture developing in the team under coach Ewen McKenzie.
He said the way the team seamlessly adapted to the loss of skipper Stephen Moore in the opening minutes of the first Test showed their strong leadership.
“I think what’s happening right now is culturally there’s some really good indicators that the team is heading in the right direction.
“Likewise, the depth that Ewen has at his disposal.”
Mortlock said he thought the Australians could beat world No.1 New Zealand and break their 11-year stronghold on the Bledisloe Cup.
Australia last beat the Kiwis in 2011.
“I’ve got to say yes,” he said when asked of their prospects.
“I know they’re focused on the French but I can’t wait to see them take on the All Blacks, particularly with two games in Australia.”
Mortlock predicted a much tighter affair in the second Test against the French, who have made 10 changes to bolster their side.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing (Mathieu) Bastareaud in the centres.
“Our midfield combination competed really well last week but he will be targeting Bernard Foley and it will be interesting to see how he goes.
“I think we will get them by 10 points.”
