WALLABIES WHO HAVE EFFECTIVELY ENDED THEIR TEST CAREERS:

Samu Kerevi (Suntory, Japan) 26, 33 caps

An exasperating departure in every respect. Arguably the best-performing Australian at both Super Rugby and Test level this year. Highly marketable too because of his explosive ways. Possible John Eales Medallist.

Rory Arnold (Toulouse, France) 29, 26 caps

Like Kerevi, has been commanding all year at lineout time and with his physicality. Coach Michael Cheika says Australia’s tallest=ever player had learned at last to “use his body like a weapon”.

David Pocock (Panasonic, Japan) 31, 83 caps

Not enough has been seen of the superstar flanker in recent years but he showed enough, eventually, in Japan to prove there’s still life in that muscular frame. A formidable career.

Adam Coleman (London Irish, England) 28, 37 caps

Back-up to two exceptional locks but would have been in line for first-choice status next year. A career built on aggression cut short.

A GOOD KNOCK

Will Genia (Kintetsu Liners, Japan) 31, 110 caps

In his prime, the most indispensible player in the Wallabies team and a genuine match-winner. Has tailed off of late and wasn’t at his best for his finale.

Christian Lealiifano (NTT Communications, Japan) 32, 26 caps

One of the great rugby stories after surviving a cancer diagnosis and battling back into the green and gold. Lacked a fairytale finish though, struggling physically to match the deeds of his brilliant Super Rugby swansong.

Sekope Kepu (London Irish, England) 33, 110 caps

Australia’s most capped prop and will be remembered as part of the turnaround in the country’s scrummaging fortunes. Popular player and a mentor for the new wave of Wallabies front-rowers.

Bernard Foley (Kubota, Japan), 30, 71 caps

One tournament too far for Australia’s fourth-highest Test point-scorer. Will always be cherished for his exceptional deeds at the 2015 World Cup.