1
Pocock sends message after hanging up Super Rugby boots
By Josh Raisey
Australia and Brumbies back row David Pocock has taken to Instagram after the news was announced yesterday that he will not renew his contract at the end of the season, bringing an end to his Super Rugby career.
The 31-year-old is out for the rest of the season with a calf injury, meaning his career for the Brumbies has already ended prematurely. He said on Instagram “[t]his isn't the way I wanted to end my time with the Brumbies. The club, the supporters, and the whole Canberra community have been so good to [me] and I over the last seven years.”
However, the flanker’s priority will be regaining his fitness for the World Cup in September, and he said he is “working on getting my body right in the hope I am lucky enough to be selected to represent the Wallabies again.”
"http://www.rugby.com.au">Wallabies, a move abroad by Pocock would not rule him out of selection for his country due to the Giteau’s law, where he has over 60 caps. However, some may fear that this will be the end of his international career after the World Cup as well. It is clear from his post that he still wants to be selected, but that may be his swansong.
This calf complaint is just the latest in a catalogue of injuries that have plagued Pocock throughout his career. But Michael Cheika, as well as all Australian fans, will be desperate for the loose forward to return, as he is arguably the Wallabies’ best player, particularly in the absence of Israel Folau.
Pocock’s expertise at the breakdown is virtually unrivaled, as he was always a great adversary to All Blacks legend Richie McCaw. The impact he has on a game is hugely significant, and Australia’s chances at the World Cup may hinge on his fitness. However, in a career that has seen him have two knee constructions in two seasons, it is understandable that he may feel like he has little left to give.
The rigours of Super Rugby may be too much for him to consistently play, and a lucrative deal abroad may make more sense, but being a fierce competitor, he is evidently disappointed his Brumbies career has ended as it has.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
All Blacks XV player ratings vs Munster
3
Suaalii strikes awe as Wallabies lose midfielder
4
Scott Robertson responds about handling errors
5
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.
Go to comments