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Quade Cooper set to miss out on the Wallabies’ World Cup squad – report

By Finn Morton
(L-R) Michael Hooper and Quade Cooper pose during a Rugby Australia media opportunity launching the Wallabies 2023 Rugby World Cup jersey, at Coogee Oval on June 22, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Coach Eddie Jones has reportedly made a couple of bold selection calls ahead of the Wallabies’ Rugby World Cup squad reveal on Thursday.

Along with Test veteran Michael Hooper, playmaker Quade Cooper is expected to miss out on the 33-man squad.

According to Christy Doran of The Roar, coach Jones has thrown his support behind rising stars Carter Gordon and Ben Donaldson ahead of the tournament in France.

This decision, as touched on by Doran, will likely bring Cooper’s Test career to an end.

“That was most likely the last game I’ve played against the ABs in NZ,” Cooper wrote on social media, a few days after what might be his final Test in Wallaby gold.

“These are the moments I’ll miss the most: taking a shot to tie the game with a full house booing, running out with your teammates against the best, knowing the challenge that awaits is just moments away.

“It just doesn’t get much better than competing at the highest level. The preparation, the physical toll, and the emotional journey can be brutal, but we continue to get up and want more.

“I stayed out on the field for about 20 minutes post-game, just thinking about my journey and how lucky I was to be one of the few standing out there, while looking into the stands where thousands had gathered.

“Understanding that I took stood out there or watched on TV with a dream of being on the other side of the fence one day.

“So, to the kids with dreams, continue to chase them even when they seem out of reach. And to the fans, whether yelling, cheering, or booing, whatever it is, thanks for always creating that atmosphere.”

According to The Roar, 18-year-old outside back Max Jorgensen is also in the mix for selection. But the drama doesn't stop there, either.

Sydney Morning Herald journalist Tom Decent has revealed that world-class centre Len Ikitau is set to miss out as well. Ikitau injured his shoulder against Argentina last month.

The Wallabies will officially reveal their Rugby World Cup squad later on Thursday.

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