Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Waratahs flyhalf Bernard Foley has backed team-mate Israel Folau for a surprise inclusion at outside centre for the Wallabies in next month's Bledisloe Cup matches.
The Wallabies have been left facing a minor midfield injury crisis after injuries to Samu Kerevi and Tevita Kuridrani, with the Waratahs' Curtis Rona and Rebels utility back Reece Hodge predicted to fill the void.
But in recent days, Folau has emerged as a possible dark horse to don the number 13 jersey after Foley said he thought Folau would be a 'natural number 13'.
Folau played several games at outside centre for the Waratahs in 2016 and 2017 and acting 'Tahs skipper Foley believes there is no reason why the athletic back couldn't fulfil the role.
“I think he’s a phenomenal player wherever he plays, he’s a big body and he’s a guy who can get us across the gain line there," Foley told Fox Sports Australia.
“I’m sure there will be a number of different scenarios thrown up (for the Bledisloe Tests) and Izzy there is definitely a threat and he’s a possibility.
“I think naturally he could be a really good long term 13.”
Folau and Foley are yet to sign new contracts and the Waratahs will be desperate to tie their star men down.
“My focus has been on the Waratahs and now it (Super Rugby) is over, the focus moves straight on to the Bledisloe Cup,” Foley said. “Something like that (contract) will definitely be done soon.”
