Old firm reunion perfect for Hunt
EIGHT years after dominating rugby league together with Brisbane, Queensland and Australia, Karmichael Hunt plans to do the same for the Wallabies alongside Israel Folau.
The former league teammates were standouts for Australia in their 37- 14 win over Fiji on Saturday and should get another chance to start together against Scotland this weekend at Allianz Stadium.
After arriving in Sydney on Sunday night, Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said he’d likely make changes to the team to play the Scots but not “wholesale” ones, and he indicated Hunt could expect more action at No. 12.
“I thought he was pretty good first game – he did his job very well,” Cheika said.
Unsurprisingly for a man who has played three codes at the highest level, Hunt on debut looked as assured as a 20- cap regular.
The other triple- coder in gold, Folau, had a stellar afternoon and though the duo didn’t link up often, they hope to do a lot more together.
“Our history is pretty well documented together, some of the best times we’ve had has been playing together,” Hunt said.
“That was at the Broncos, and since then we’ve played opposite each other. But to be on the same field was fantastic, and to see him perform the way he did, I couldn’t be happier. “It is funny how life works out. “Geez, so much has happened since ’ 09, so to be here making my debut as a 30- year- old, mind you – I didn’t think that was going to happen – I’m just really enjoying it, especially for my family.
“We played a few Kangaroos Tests together, we’ve played in a few different arenas together.
“It’s a unique tandem in terms of sporting history. Hopefully many more wins in the gold jersey, that’s what we’re after.”
Hunt was measured in attack on debut while getting through a significant defensive test against a big Fijian side that sent plenty of traffic his way.
He brought a calm look to the backline and was often found at first receiver to give five- eighth Bernard Foley more space on the outside.
“Bernie wants second ball play – obviously it’s a bit different to what I’m playing at the Queensland Reds so I just had to get used to it, step up there and be a playmaker so to speak,” Hunt said.
“I think that’s what they want from me.”
Hunt was pleased with his international rugby debut, particularly after having come into Wallabies camp thinking he would play as an outside back as he does with the Reds.
He was only told on Thursday he’d be starting at centre, where he hasn’t played this season.