Ryan Lonergan, a 27-year-old rookie, made his long-awaited Test debut for the Wallabies against the All Blacks on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in his rugby career. Lonergan’s debut came during a turbulent period for the Wallabies, as veteran halfback Nic White announced a surprise return to training following a brief retirement. This move, however, was only to provide cover for Lonergan and fellow halfback Jake Gordon, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained at Eden Park.
Lonergan’s journey to this moment has been marked by perseverance. He spent five years working behind established Wallabies players, including Jake Gordon, Tate McDermott, and White. After impressing with the Brumbies since 2017, he was finally called up to the national squad and became Wallaby No. 992. The timing of his debut was particularly noteworthy, as he became the 150th player to debut for the Wallabies since James Slipper took the field in 2010, coinciding with Slipper’s 150th Test match.
Reflecting on his path to this achievement, Lonergan expressed pride in his commitment to his development. “I’m very proud, looking back, how I sort of stuck with it and just tried to continue to grow my game really,” he said. The Canberra native’s determination to wear the green and gold jersey was a driving force behind his decision to turn down several overseas offers.
Lonergan’s Performance and Comparisons to Gilchrist
Making his debut against a formidable All Blacks side, Lonergan showcased his skills gained through 93 Super Rugby games and five Australia A caps. He felt comfortable on the field, despite the high-pressure environment. “It did feel quite comfortable out there, even though there were a few errors out there,” he noted, emphasizing the value of his Super Rugby experience.
His composure and maturity during the match drew comparisons to cricketing legend Adam Gilchrist, who made his Test debut at the same age and went on to become a star player for Australia. While Lonergan may not reach the same number of Tests, there is potential for him to play a pivotal role in the upcoming Rugby World Cup in 2027.
Gordon, who is expected to return against the All Blacks, and McDermott, both of whom are also 27, will continue to compete for the starting position alongside Lonergan. This depth adds a competitive edge to the Wallabies’ squad as they prepare for future challenges.
Team Updates and Looking Ahead
The Wallabies announced on Sunday that Will Skelton and Rob Valetini would rejoin the squad for the second Bledisloe Test in Perth. Josh Flook is also set to come in, while Len Ikitau, who suffered from a virus earlier in the week, is expected to be available for selection.
Head coach Joe Schmidt praised Lonergan’s readiness and resilience, recognizing the hard work that led to this moment. The Wallabies are focused on building momentum as they navigate a challenging season, with Lonergan’s debut serving as both a personal triumph and a testament to his dedication to the sport.
As the team prepares for further fixtures, Lonergan’s journey from aspiring player to Wallabies debutant highlights the importance of perseverance in the competitive world of rugby. His story resonates with many young athletes, emphasizing that hard work and patience can lead to fulfilling one’s dreams on the international stage.
