Schmidt supports De Crespigny, the 'scavenger' Champion, against the Lions
In a thrilling turn of events, Nick Champion de Crespigny, the robust and physical Australian rugby union player, has been selected as the starting blindside flanker for the Wallabies in their highly anticipated clash against the British & Irish Lions.
Champion de Crespigny, known for his gritty and intense style, has earned the nickname "psycho" for his fierce competitiveness. Born in Canberra, he brings a unique background to the team, having spent three years playing professionally for Castres in France before joining the Western Force in Australia.
His inclusion in the starting lineup for the Lions Test comes as a surprise, especially with first-choice blindside flanker Rob Valetini not fully fit. Champion de Crespigny's physical readiness and on-field impact demonstrated during the Super Rugby season with Western Force, coupled with his European experience, secured him the spot.
The Lions series presents a formidable challenge for the Wallabies, with the Lions having won all five tour matches so far. However, Champion de Crespigny's addition to the back row adds valuable toughness to the team alongside captain Harry Wilson and Fraser McReight.
In other team news, Allan Alaalatoa and James Slipper are starting as props, alongside Matt Faessler. Slipper's inclusion marks a significant milestone, as he joins George Smith as the only players to feature for the Wallabies in back-to-back Lions series in the professional era.
Tom Lynagh, who adds to his three caps, will wear the No.10 shirt against the Lions, 36 years after his father Michael did the same on their 1989 visit. Meanwhile, Max Jorgensen takes up the left wing, and Harry Potter is on the right wing.
Jake Gordon is the preferred scrum-half for Australia, while Len Ikitau partners Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in the centers for the Wallabies. Jeremy Williams and Nick Frost retain their positions at lock.
The absence of James O'Connor, who started all three Tests at fly-half when Australia last hosted the tourists in 2013, from the starting lineup is noteworthy. Ben Donaldson, initially seen as favourite to be the playmaker, also finds no room in the starting lineup.
Fraser McReight, Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, Tom Robertson, Tom Hooper, Carlo Tizzano, Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Andrew Kellaway are the replacements for Australia.
Dave Porecki sustained a head knock against Fiji, opening the door for Matt Faessler's return as starting hooker. Harry Wilson captains the team, leading the Wallabies into this exciting encounter.
As the Lions series unfolds, Champion de Crespigny's physical presence and proven ability to perform at a high level are expected to be crucial factors in Australia's bid to challenge the Lions' undefeated run.
Despite being an accomplished rugby union player, Champion de Crespigny's unexpected selection as starting blindside flanker for the Lions Test opens up possibilities in other sports. In light of his absence from the rugby field, football could be an intriguing alternative, given his gritty and intense style that has earned him the nickname "psycho." With Champion de Crespigny's inclusion, the Wallabies' football team might benefit from his unique background and physical readiness, potentially making them a force to reckon with on the football field.
