FORMER Gunnedah junior Harry Wilson will continue to lead the Wallabies after retaining the captaincy under new coach Les Kiss.
The Queensland Reds No. 8 has been entrusted to lead Australia into the next chapter following Joe Schmidt’s departure, with Kiss opting for continuity as he prepares for his first Tests in charge against Japan next month.
For the Wallabies, Kiss has made it clear his approach will be one of “evolution over revolution”, retaining the core of the squad that finished the recent Nations Championship while gradually introducing his own ideas and style.
“I’ve talked about evolution rather than revolution and making sure we keep certain things consistent,” Kiss said, as reported by Rugby Australia.
“I’m happy with Harry and I spoke to him yesterday and he wants to do the job. I’m really happy with what he’s done in his 23 Tests as skipper. I think he’s grown and he wants to grow further.
Wilson’s retention as captain reflects the regard in which he is held within the national setup after taking over the role during Schmidt’s tenure and establishing himself as one of Australia’s most influential players.
The 25-year-old, a former junior Red Devil, has become a cornerstone of both the Reds and the Wallabies with his leadership, work rate and consistency.
Kiss has largely kept faith with the squad assembled by Schmidt, making only minimal changes for the upcoming series against Eddie Jones’ Japan, while signalling that competition for places will continue.
The Wallabies will open the Kiss era against Japan in Osaka before returning home to play against Japan in Townsville.
