1
'Cheika got my UK number - I never gave it to him, didn't want to'
By Online Editors
Tatafu Polota-Nau thought he had escaped the clutches of Michael Cheika.
But the Wallabies coach proved his investigative and negotiating skills were up to scratch, luring the English-based hooker home out of the blue for a potential third World Cup campaign.
"I am quite shocked to be back here," the 89-Test veteran hooker told reporters ahead of a possible return in Saturday's Rugby Championship Teat against Argentina in Brisbane.
"I was in good stead with the (Premiership Rugby club) Leicester preseason and all of a sudden my phone rings," said 33-year-old Polota-Nau.
"Little did I know Michael Cheika got my UK number - I never gave it to him, didn't want to, but somehow he got it.
"He asked if I'd come along and I said 'sure why not, I'll give it one last crack'."
Noted scrummager Polota-Nau admits he wasn't happy with what he thought was his farewell Wallabies form last year and it took some convincing from the coach to drag him back i nto the fold.
Knee surgery in the English off-season behind him, Polota-Nau rates himself a chance to feature at Suncorp Stadium and push younger hooking options like in-form Folau Fainga'a ahead of September's World Cup in Japan.
"It ended with a sour note last season ... I sort of thought it was my last with the Wallabies," he said.
"I didn't have the stamina I used to have, but that's because my preparation wasn't the best.
"It's from my end just to see if I've still got it ... give these guys (younger hookers) a run for their money."
The Wallabies are unbeaten in their last five Tests in Brisbane but have won just two of their last seven Rugby Championship clashes.
Argentina are well-stocked with Jaguares talent that played in the Super Rugby decider and, despite losing their last six Tests, present as a genuine threat after their plucky win on the Gold Coast last year.
- AAP
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Jake White: Ireland, Australia and Wales have the same problem
3
David Campese names his Springbok world player of the year winner
4
Let's be real about these All Blacks
5
Latest Comments
It is unbelievable the slump in England's form since beating Ireland in last year's 6 N, and giving the AB's a good run for the money down in NZ. The Felix Jones walkout has been disastrous. What happened there we may never know.
The England backline has faltered too, scoring some great tries, but then also making bad mistakes, such as the one that led to the Kellaway try. I felt that out in NZ there was too much possession kicked away, and that has continued this autumn.
One does miss a lot in just watching the game once, and not going back and checking on "what really happened". That is where the analytical part of your articles are so illuminating, Nick.
Go to commentsYes - and plus points for hair diversity.
Go to comments