Cooper to step up World Cup bid after Barbarians choice by Jones
Australia boss Eddie Jones has drafted fly-half Cooper into his Baa-Baas ranks for the May 28 conflict in west London, along with his Wallabies team-mate Samu Kerevi one other highly effective addition.
Veteran playmaker Cooper has been battling again to health after rupturing an Achilles tendon in late 2022, and has massive designs on making the World Cup in France in September.
Now the 35-year-old may have a possibility to impress the Wallabies’ new boss up shut and private, by linking up with Jones’ Barbarians on the finish of the month.
Australia are busy rebuilding below new boss Jones forward of the World Cup, the place the Wallabies may very well be on a collision course for a quarter-final conflict towards the taskmaster coach’s former employers England.
Jones will honour his dedication to the Barbarians conflict regardless of his Wallabies duties, teeing up an intriguing battle of wits with World XV coach Steve Hansen, the two-time All Blacks World Cup winner.
Livewire fly-half Cooper and potent centre Kerevi will present a nice backline foil for Jones’ workforce, with Harlequins and England prop Joe Marler already on board.
Wales stars Alun Wyn Jones, Rhys Webb and Taulupe Faletau may also swell Jones’ ranks, with Bristol’s ex-All Blacks ahead Steven Luatua concerned too.
Hansen’s World XV will boast Bristol’s departing star duo Charles Piutau and Semi Radradra, with London Irish lock Api Ratuniyarawa amongst a nice solid listing.
Barbarians boss Jones has admitted he’s totally centered on proving a degree on a quick-fire return to Twickenham, having been sacked by England in December.
“I am very much looking forward to returning to Twickenham, a venue I have so many fond memories of, and I’m more motivated than ever to put on a show,” stated Jones.
“Going up against Steve (Hansen) rekindles a great rivalry which first started in our days competing in Super Rugby and progressed into the international area.
“It’ll be a great challenge and one I’m sure we’re both relishing.”
General admission tickets for the blockbuster Barbarian FC vs World XV conflict are on sale now from www.ticketmaster.co.uk/barbarians on the early-bird value of simply £25 for adults and £15 for under-16s.