James O’Connor retained for Wallabies’ crunch Tests against All Blacks
James O'Connor, the experienced flyhalf, has been retained in the Wallabies' squad for the crucial Rugby Championship Tests against the All Blacks, despite his recent move to join English club Leicester. Coach Joe Schmidt has also called up Jake Gordon, his preferred scrumhalf, to the 34-man squad. The decision to keep O'Connor in the team came at the expense of Western Force's Ben Donaldson, who had been tipped for a recall after recovering from a thigh injury. Instead, Schmidt has opted for Tom Lynagh and Tane Edmed as the other flyhalf options in the squad. The upcoming matches against the All Blacks are seen as crucial for the Wallabies as they look to build momentum and challenge their trans-Tasman rivals. The inclusion of experienced players like O'Connor and the return of Gordon are expected to bolster the team's chances in these high-stakes encounters.
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