WALLABIES OUT-HALF Quade Cooper insists there has been no disruption this weekend after Kurtley Beale arrived as a late addition to the squad for their penultimate November Test against Ireland.
Beale was at the centre of a storm that led to Ewen McKenzie’s resignation as head coach just one month ago.
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New boss Michael Cheika initially left the fullback out of the squad to tour Europe this month, but the utility back has now arrived at Australia’s Killiney base.
Although Cooper was careful to limit the amount of time speaking about Beale, he did say that he and his team-mates are pleased to have him back.
“From a team point of view, he offers a lot. Everybody’s happy to have him here.
“Cheik’ speaks highly of him and knows his ability as a player. None of us are here to play politics we’re all here with the same focus: improving as a rugby team and improving as rugby players.”
Cooper runs in a try against Ireland last year. Billy Stickland / INPHO
Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHO
Uncapped Queensland Reds back row Jake Schatz was somewhat overshadowed as he touched down with Beale. However, he too was eager to downplay any sense that he is a ‘forgotten man’ amid the circus around the Waratahs star.
“Ah, no,” was Schatz’ straight-batted reply,” My only [concern] is that I’m keen to get here and show what I can do and learn.”
“Kurtley’s fine, I traveled over with him, he was in good spirits and he’s keen to get out there and train and be a part of the team.”
Everybody's happy to have Kurtley Beale back in the squad -- Quade Cooper
WALLABIES OUT-HALF Quade Cooper insists there has been no disruption this weekend after Kurtley Beale arrived as a late addition to the squad for their penultimate November Test against Ireland.
Beale was at the centre of a storm that led to Ewen McKenzie’s resignation as head coach just one month ago.
New boss Michael Cheika initially left the fullback out of the squad to tour Europe this month, but the utility back has now arrived at Australia’s Killiney base.
Although Cooper was careful to limit the amount of time speaking about Beale, he did say that he and his team-mates are pleased to have him back.
“Cheik’ speaks highly of him and knows his ability as a player. None of us are here to play politics we’re all here with the same focus: improving as a rugby team and improving as rugby players.”
Uncapped Queensland Reds back row Jake Schatz was somewhat overshadowed as he touched down with Beale. However, he too was eager to downplay any sense that he is a ‘forgotten man’ amid the circus around the Waratahs star.
“Ah, no,” was Schatz’ straight-batted reply,” My only [concern] is that I’m keen to get here and show what I can do and learn.”
“Kurtley’s fine, I traveled over with him, he was in good spirits and he’s keen to get out there and train and be a part of the team.”
TheScore.ie’s November Tests team of the week
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All-Ireland Senior HC November Internationals 2013 November Internationals Omni here comes trouble Ireland Ireland Kurtley Beale November Tests Quade Cooper Rugby Australia Wallabies