Captain Michael Hooper says the Wallabies’ troubles of the last four years are far from his mind as he embraces the shot at another deep run at the Rugby World Cup.
On the eve of their opening pool match against Fiji in Sapporo, Hooper wasn’t interested in reflecting on an unsettled and at times controversial period for his team since they marched to the final at Twickenham in 2015.
“I’m only focusing on this tournament. That’s where my mind is at. Not four years ago, not last year, right now,” he said on Friday.
“We’ve had so much time now to be thinking about this moment. We’re finally here so we’re ready to go.”
Hooper’s men were a united group at the last global tournament, capturing a winning formula which took them past Fiji, England, Wales, Scotland and Argentina.
They’ve failed to scale the same heights since.
In 47 Tests since losing the tournament decider to the All Blacks, Australia have managed just 20 wins, leaving them ranked a tenuous ranked sixth in the world and not rated among the genuine heavyweights expected to challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup.
Australian Super Rugby fortunes have slumped in that time and off-field problems have blighted the sport, not more so than this year as the imbroglio surrounding Israel Folau suffocated the headlines.
Previous Wallabies teams may have been fancied to deal comfortably with Fiji first up – as happened four years ago – but the Pacific Islanders pose the genuine prospect of an upset.
Hooper said no stone had been left unturned, including a drawn-out analysis of the Fijians.
Next week’s blockbuster against Wales hasn’t entered the conversation.
“We’ve been looking at Fiji for a long time now and a lot of players within that team have been highlighted,” Hooper said.
“We’re very aware of the threats these guys have across the park. A big, fast forward pack, athletic men. We’re definitely ready for what they have to offer.”
Australia’s hopes of snuffing out the Fijian threat will start with the breakdown work of Hooper and the recalled David Pocock.
They and No.8 Isi Naisarani will be responsible for ensuring an unfettered supply of phase possession as well as shutting their athletic opposites.
Hooper was delighted to have Pocock back after the classy back-rower sat out six months this year with injury.
“I’m a fan of his work on the field. His ability to get over the ball, coupled with Isi, who’s got a great attacking game and some good defence work there,” he said.
“It’s the first time this year we’ve played this combination. I think it’s going to be a really good challenge for us coming up against a big back five in their pack.”
Hooper was in awe of the space age Sapporo Dome indoor venue.
He said it would suit their high-tempo game perfectly, setting the scene for a spectacular clash against opponents who know little more than to run the ball.
