Wallabies news | Michael Hooper backs James Slipper to captain Australia
James Slipper looks set to remain the Wallabies captain for the foreseeable future if Michael Hooper’s recent remarks are anything to go by.
Hooper suddenly stepped away from the national side on the eve of this year’s Rugby Championship to focus on his mental health.
That subsequently prompted coach Dave Rennie to give Slipper the nod to lead the Wallabies.
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Hooper has since returned to the fold, starting the spring tour matches against Scotland, France, and Ireland.
He was rested against Italy and missed the final Test against Wales after suffering a concussion in the Ireland match, resulting in an early trip home.
Little has been said about whether he would eventually return to the Wallabies captaincy, until now.
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“Jimmy’s doing a really outstanding job at the moment and I’m really happy with how that’s gone,” Hooper told the Sydney Morning Herald.
“Whatever else happens, first off my biggest goal is to play my best footy for the team.
“It’s a long season and that World Cup is 10 months away.
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“A lot can happen, so we’ll work that one out later.
“Playing well is my biggest focus for now and that’s of the utmost importance.”
The Wallabies have won four of their 11 matches with Slipper at the helm.
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