Imagine a young rugby sensation who ditched the oval game for the league's rough-and-tumble world, only to make a heartfelt comeback—this is the gripping story of Carter Gordon's return to the Wallabies, packed with twists that could redefine Australian rugby. And this is the part most people miss: how his journey might just inject some much-needed spark into a team hungry for success.
Carter Gordon is poised to reclaim his spot as the Wallabies' flyhalf before the month wraps up, thanks to a negotiated release from his NRL contract that paves the way for his inclusion in Australia's upcoming spring tour. The 24-year-old's shift back to the Queensland Reds was officially announced on Monday, following Rugby Australia's successful bid to free him from the remaining year of his deal with the Gold Coast Titans.
For those new to the rugby scene, let's break this down: the flyhalf is a pivotal position—think of it as the quarterback of rugby union, directing plays, kicking goals, and making split-second decisions under pressure. Gordon, who earned eight caps for the Wallabies, dazzled at the last Rugby World Cup before making a bold switch to rugby league, signing with the Titans. But here's where it gets controversial: his NRL adventure hit a major snag with a severe spinal injury that delayed his debut until the season's final round, where he played in the centres—a position more focused on speed and support plays rather than the strategic control he's known for in union.
Now, Gordon could step onto the field against Japan on October 25, marking a nostalgic reunion with coach Eddie Jones, who famously picked him to guide the Wallabies during their disappointing 2023 World Cup performance. He's been added to Monday's 34-player squad alongside another playmaker, Tane Edmed, but notably absent is 22-year-old flyhalf Tom Lynagh. Lynagh has been sidelined by concussions and minor injuries after featuring in all three tests against the British and Irish Lions, prompting coach Joe Schmidt to describe his exclusion as a 'long-term' strategy to allow full recovery—raising eyebrows about whether this is purely precautionary or a sign of deeper selection debates.
Gordon's arrival stirs up plenty of excitement—and potential rivalry—at the Reds, where he's joining a crowded flyhalf scene that already includes Lynagh, Australia A player Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, and Fijian recruit Ben Volvolva. Reds and Wallabies second-rower Lukhan Salakaia-Loto humorously captured the buzz with his cheeky response to the club's social media announcement: 'So who's playing 10?'—a playful nod to the flyhalf jersey number that highlights the position battle brewing.
But Reds coach Les Kiss, set to replace outgoing Wallabies coach Schmidt next year, sees Gordon as a versatile asset capable of filling flyhalf, fullback, or inside centre roles. This flexibility could be a game-changer, especially for beginners wondering about rugby positions: fullback patrols the backline defensively, while inside centre focuses on midfield attacks and tackles—showing Gordon's adaptability might ease squad rotations.
Hailing from the Sunshine Coast and now a proud new father, Gordon expressed his joy at staying local instead of pursuing lucrative offers in Europe or Asia. 'I'm absolutely thrilled to get back to the sport I grew up loving as a kid, particularly with the chance to play for the Queensland Reds, the team I've always cheered for,' he shared. 'Watching Queensland and the Wallabies from a distance over the last year has inspired me, and I'm eager to put in the work to make a positive impact both on and off the field.'
He also extended gratitude to the Gold Coast Titans for their role in his development: 'I'd like to thank the Gold Coast Titans for giving me the chance to grow as a player and a person during my 16 months there, and for all their support for me and my family. I wish the players and staff the very best moving forward.'
Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh highlighted the strategic value of Gordon's return, noting he now has 'a two-year runway to build his case for the 2027 World Cup.' 'Rugby Australia has adopted a thoughtful approach to player contracts this World Cup cycle, and we're excited to welcome Carter back into the fold,' Waugh added.
The squad features uncapped talents like Reds forward Aidan Ross and scrumhalf Kalani Thomas, gearing up for matches against Japan in Tokyo, England in London, Italy in Udine, Ireland in Dublin, and France in Paris. For clarity, uncapped means these players haven't yet represented Australia at the international level, so this tour could be their big break.
Overseas-based players, including lock Will Skelton and key backs Len Ikitau and James O'Connor—who featured in the team's latest game—won't join until after the second test. Additionally, Western Force flyer Dylan Pietsch is back from a jaw fracture, and outside back Andrew Kellaway returns after sitting out the Bledisloe Cup Tests due to a calf injury. Australia A squad members Matt Faessler, Josh Canham, Pete Samu, and Hamish Stewart will merge with the Wallabies in Tokyo following their game against Japan XV in Osaka on October 18.
Wallabies squad: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Josh Canham, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Pete Samu, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson, Filipo Daugunu, Tane Edmed, Josh Flook, Carter Gordon, Jake Gordon, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Ryan Lonergan, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Hamish Stewart, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Kalani Thomas, Corey Toole.
What do you think—is Gordon's comeback a masterstroke for the Wallabies, or could it complicate the Reds' depth at flyhalf? And is Schmidt's decision to bench Lynagh a smart move for long-term health, or an underestimation of his readiness? Do you agree with the strategic player rotations, or should overseas stars jump in sooner? Share your opinions in the comments—let's debate!
