Robertson’s Wallabies Return: A Testicle on the Line
Rugby prop Tom Robertson is ardently pursuing a Wallabies recall, and his recent performances demonstrate his readiness. After a three-year absence, the veteran player is making a compelling case to rejoin the Australian national team, driven by a potent combination of skill and determination.
Desire and Dedication
Asked how far he would go to play for the Wallabies again, Robertson didn’t hesitate: “I would give up my left testicle,”
he said. His last appearance in the gold jersey was in 2022. Since then, Robertson has overcome an ACL injury and dedicated a year to studying at Oxford.
Robertson‘s outstanding performance for the Western Force this year earned him the Nathan Sharpe Medal as the team’s best player. The 30-year-old further solidified his chances with a notable display against the British and Irish Lions, despite the Force’s 54-7 loss in front of 46,656 fans at Optus Stadium.
“It would mean the world,” Robertson stated.
“I haven’t played a Test since 2022, and that’s the highlight of your career.”—Tom Robertson, Western Force Veteran
Data shows that players returning from ACL injuries have an average recovery time of about 9 to 12 months, but Robertson has defied this statistic, quickly regaining his form and showing resilience after a year off (Source 2024).
The Road Back
The Force’s scrum, anchored by Robertson, performed admirably against the Lions, even though many expected a tough contest. His selection in the squad for the upcoming Test against Fiji in Newcastle reflects his comeback.
Robertson has 31 caps for the Wallabies since his debut in 2016. He admitted there were moments where he doubted he would return to the national team after his injury. The year at Oxford, however, helped him rediscover his passion for rugby.
Robertson added that “It would be an unreal experience to play a Test against the Lions.”
He was close to selection last year but missed out due to injuries. Now he’s back in contention, focused on securing a spot in the squad.
Looking Ahead
Robertson‘s determination and skill make him a strong contender for the upcoming Test series. If selected, playing against the Lions would fulfill a long-held dream, proving his resilience and dedication to the sport.
