Beale role put Jones on edge
Kurtley Beale is enjoying a roving in role the Wallabies backline as England coach Eddie Jones warned his side needed to nullify Australia’s “wonderfully gifted player” when they face him on Sunday. Coach Michael Cheika is yet to announce which jersey Beale will wear for this weekend’s game. He has played the entire year at inside centre aside from Australia’s past two games where he shifted to fullback to cover Israel Folau, who is not on the tour. The versatility of the Wallabies backline is a major strength because players are able to shift between positions with ease – particularly Beale, who can inject himself into first receiver whenever he sees fits. “I’m really enjoying the role I have at the moment,” Beale said. “It’s a bit of a roving role and I’ll play wherever the coaches see fit and think I play my best rugby [and] whatever’s the best for the team. As a backline we all have a good understanding of what is required in certain positions.” Karmichael Hunt, who had a solid game off the bench against Wales in Cardiff, is vying for selection in what would be his first outing against England. “With K, he brings a lot of class and lot of energy and a lot of calmness,” Beale said. “He is a great player with a lot of experience in different codes and he certainly has got a good head on his shoulders. He has added a lot to us for sure. “It’s creating a lot of competition at training each week. It’s keeping us on our toes.”