Koroibete’s tackling up a storm
RUGBY UNION: Signing Marika Koroibete as a flying finisher has come with an unexpected bonus because the Wallabies may have unearthed the most damaging defensive winger in world rugby.
Wallabies teammate Karmichael Hunt lauded Koroibete as the “complete package” for Sunday’s Test against Scotland at Murrayfield now he has learnt how to transfer his rugby league DNA into “looking to hurt people” with his tackling.
Koroibete was an uncertain figure chasing shadows in his Super Rugby debut in March for Melbourne Rebels against the Hurricanes, which highlighted how far he had come to be the Wallabies’ top asset in last weekend’s 30-6 tumble to England.
Those long-time code followers more accustomed to wingers cuddling rivals to the turf or throwing out a one-armed attempt had to be impressed with the former Melbourne Storm rugby league winger’s front-on clout to bury Eliot Daly, Anthony Watson and co.
It wasn’t just making seven tackles, but stop-’em-intheir-tracks hits like the try-saver on 116kg Maro Itoje (pictured) when the Wallabies were down to 13 men and Koroibete was giving away 23kg in the match-up.
“Marika is killing it. Everyone loves playing with him and he gives 100 per cent every time,” Hunt said.
“He’ll come off his mark and he’ll look to hurt people (in defence) ... there is that bit of league in his DNA.”
As far as changes go, fit-again Lukhan Tui will come into the pack at lock or flanker, with Ned Hanigan (knee) and Adam Coleman (thumb) having flown home.