Fire still burns for Wallabies skipper
MICHAEL Hooper bluntly rejected suggestions his time as Wallabies captain is coming to an end as the gutsy flanker prepares to lead the Australian side for the final time in 2020.
Speaking to media ahead of Saturday’s rematch with Argentina, Hooper shut down rumours he might give up the armband – or potentially have it taken away – with a passionate defence of his captaincy.
Asked if he’s considered when his long tenure as skipper will end, Hooper bluntly replied:
“I haven’t thought about it.” Pressed on the topic, he said: “Why would I? I’m focused on Saturday.”
The straightforward, nononsense Hooper is never one to wax lyrical about the game, preferring to lead by example on the park - as he has done through his century of Tests.
But his passion, leadership and team-first mentality was clear as he spoke about how honoured he feels to lead the green and gold.
“I think it’s a massive privilege to captain your country,” he said.
“I’ve been very lucky to do it on many occasions.
“I love that.”
Asked if there’s a misconception he would be happy to give up the armband, he said he “absolutely” cherished the job.
“It’s a huge privilege. I get to stand in the line and not only represent my country but lead some men that sacrificed a lot,” he said.
At 29, Hooper already boasts the third-most Tests as Wallabies skipper with 51. But with just 20 wins in that time, his record is underwhelming.
His decision-making during matches has come under scrutiny in recent years, including his call to kick for points when four down against Wales in last year’s World Cup.
Those questions came to the fore again as the Wallabies drew 15-15 with the Pumas, with Hooper opting not to take multiple penalty opportunities in favour of chasing tries.
But he defended those calls, saying: “I was very pleased with my decisions in the last game. Gave our (boys the) opportunity to take the win and move away with it.
“At 6-15 with 19 minutes to go we were primed to move and put that game to bed, which we weren’t able to do.
“We’ll be better for that. We’ve learned a lot.”