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"He deadset wasn't interested" - Wallaby legend dishes scathing Folau review

By Online Editors
Israel Folau. Photo / Getty Images

Former Wallaby Glen Ella has given Israel Folau's performance during the Wallabies' 23-12 loss to South Africa a scathing review.

“On the weekend he didn’t look like he was interested, to be honest with you,” Ella told Fox Rugby.

“He deadset wasn’t interested.”

Folau struggled to get involved against the Springboks, logging eight carries for just 11 metres and conceding four turnovers.

Starting an international on the wing for the second time in five years, Folau was outshone by his opposite Aphiwe Dyantyi, who had a try to his name just 22 seconds into the match.

Former Test fullback Ella has urged Folau to seek out former winger and Wallaby legend David Campese, Australia's all-time leading try scorer.

“Why doesn’t Cheik, when he gets back, sit Israel down with a guy by the name of David Campese, who had that roving role and that’s what they want him to do,” Ella said.

“They want him to rove around to inject himself into the play.

“So get him to sit down with Campo, go through his game and what he’s got to look for to be able to make that bridge over the defensive line.”

Ella also said that if he were in Michael Cheika's shoes Kurtley Beale would don the No. 15 jersey. Bernard Foley and Matt Toomua would pair up at first and second five-eighths.

“My backline would have Kurtley at 15," Ella said. “I’m not saying he’s [Folau] been bad. I’m just saying that’s where Kurtley’s best position is.

“Matt’s a good player and he’s a steady player, and there’s even an option to put him at 10 at some stage.

“He’s got a good kicking game, his got a good head on his shoulders and he takes the ball forward so that would be a good option. But Kurtley definitely at 15.”

The Wallabies will be trying to salvage what's left of their Rugby Championship campaign with their final fixture in Buenos Aires tomorrow.

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