Future uncertain but Coleman pumped up for Boks
ADAM Coleman is remaining coy about whether he will stay in Australian rugby until the 2019 World Cup or pursue overseas options.
But the Wallabies lock is clear about at one thing: he wants to butt heads with South Africa’s imposing locks when the Wallabies take on the Boks in Bloemfontein on Sunday morning. In an often- changing second row for the Wallabies this year, Coleman — when fit — has been the only mainstay and his role of leading the team’s lineout and physical tone will be crucial for Australia against the Springbok locks.
Boks captain Eben Etzebeth, Pieter- Steph du Toit and Lood de Jager all stand well over 2m tall and they made life difficult for the Wallabies in Perth by dominating the lineout.
Just as Nathan Sharpe and Dan Vickerman used to relish the chance to joust with Victor Matfield and Bakkies Botha, Coleman is excited about playing South Africa’s new breed of tall timber.
“I think that’s Test footy,” Coleman said.
“You always look at your opposite number and know they are the best in their country.
“I think that’s part of the enjoyment of playing Test footy.
“You’re going up against the best they have to offer and we are the best we have to offer and you go toe- to- toe.”
The merits of Test rugby versus mountains of money from European clubs is something Coleman has on his mind. With his beloved West- ern Force having closed, Coleman can theoretically be granted a release from his ARU contract.
Asked about his future, Coleman said he had options.
“There is a lot of water to go under the bridge and I am just assessing my options,” he said.
“I love playing for the Wallabies and what I want to do, for this year, is play the best rugby I can for my country.”