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An outside bet to replace Israel Folau just put his hand up
By Online Editors
Brumbies flyer Tom Banks put his hand up to replace Wallabies fullback Israel Folau with a stunning return to form against the Lions in Super Rugby.
Banks was back to his devastating best, breaking the line with ease and scoring a try as the ACT cantered to a 31-20 victory in Canberra on Saturday.
It was a timely performance as Folau looks set to be sacked by Rugby Australia following his controversial social media post last week.
Folau listed homosexuals as one of eight groups of people for whom "Hell awaits", and Rugby Australia have said they intend to fire the 62-Test fullback.
The NSW Waratahs superstar was sanctioned in 2017 for similar comments and intends to fight any punishment from his employers.
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It's highly unlikely Folau will be part of the Wallabies' World Cup squad in Japan later this year and Banks has put himself in prime position to fill the void.
The 3-5 Brumbies have endured an inconsistent start but if Banks' form continues into the second half of the Super Rugby season he could prove irresistible to Wallabies coach Michael Cheika.
"It's a lot better to be making good metres and getting involved in the game so obviously I'm happy with that but it's a team thing, on the back of team success comes personal success," Banks told AAP.
Banks debuted and played four Tests for Australia last year but Brumbies coach Dan McKellar was quick to temper his rise into Folau's boots.
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves on the back of one pretty good performance, I just think we rush into that with individuals, not just Tom Banks but anyone," McKellar said.
"If your preparation is good you perform well for your franchise and all those selections and outcomes will look after themselves.
"He's got genuine speed, he's in the game, he'll challenge any defensive line, whether it's Super Rugby or Test level he's going to be someone who's going to be in the forefront of selectors' minds."
If Folau's contract is terminated, Banks will battle for the Wallabies No. 15 jersey with Reece Hodge, Dane Haylett-Petty and Jack Maddocks.
AAP
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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