Bledisloe Cup thriller

THE All Blacks landed safely in Australia with players who have connection to Fiji — George Bower, Alex Hodgman, Hoskins Sotutu and Sevu Reece.

The return two-match series will be tough. Australia had the game in the bag at the Sky Stadium but both teams drew 16-all while at Eden Park the Wallabies were humiliated 27-7.

As both sides prepare for the ultimate battle in Australia this evening, I could not help but praise our veteran journalist Maikeli Seru for sharing another well-written piece titled “The boy who wasn’t afraid” in yesterday’s The Fiji Times.

The article was based on Wallabies Fijian sensation and former Labasa goalkeeper Filipo Daugunu.

In the article, Mike (as I fondly call him) shared Daugunu’s story, which is a testimony of hard work, perseverance and dedication.

Lipo, as he is known, has a fairytale story as far as his rugby success is concerned and his scintillating efforts against the All Blacks in NZ did not go unnoticed and I’m adamant that he will be the Wallabies’ trump card alongside another Fijian Marika Koroibete.

The Wallabies have named a formidable line-up with the likes of James Slipper, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Allan Alaalatoa, Lukhan SalakaiaLoto, Matt Philip, Ned Hanigan, Michael Hooper, Harry Wilson, Nic White, Noah Lolesio, Marika Koroibete, Irae Simone, Jordan Petaia, Filipo Daugunu and Dane HaylettPetty while Jordan Uelese, Scott Sio, Taniela Tupou, Hunter Paisami, Rob Simmons, Fraser McReight, Tate McDermott and Reece Hodge will come from the bench.

The All Blacks have also named an explosive squad with the likes of Karl Tu’inukuafe, Dane Coles, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Whitelock, Shannon Frizell, Sam Cane, Hoskins Sotutu, Aaron Smith, Richie Mo’unga, Caleb Clarke, Jack Goodhue, Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie and Beauden Barrett, Codie Taylor, Alex Hodgman, Tyrel Lomax, Scott Barrett, Dalton Papalii, TJ Perenara, Ngani Laumape and Rieko Ioane.

I wish my All Blacks team all the best! I’ll be at The Palms Apartments cheering for the All Blacks! RAJNESH ISHWAR LINGAM Nadawa, Nasinu