Carter Gordon is back in the Wallabies squad after a surprising early exit from his NRL stint with the Gold Coast Titans. The 24-year-old flyhalf, who played in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has secured a release to join the Queensland Reds and is set to feature in Australia’s spring tour. Will he reclaim the Wallabies’ No.10 jersey?
In this video, we break down:
Gordon’s NRL Journey: From his spinal injury setback to his brief debut in the centres.
The Reds’ Flyhalf Conundrum: How does Gordon fit in with Lynagh, McLaughlin-Phillips, and Volavola?
Eddie Jones Reunion: Can Gordon impress against Japan under his former coach?
2027 World Cup Aspirations: Rugby Australia’s long-term vision for Gordon.
Wallabies Spring Tour: Previewing the matches against Japan, England, Italy, Ireland, and France.
Don’t miss this in-depth analysis of Carter Gordon’s return to rugby and the implications for the Wallabies and Queensland Reds!
In a move that’s sure to spark debate among rugby fans, Carter Gordon is making a dramatic return to the wabe squad, leaving his NRL stint behind before it even truly began. But here’s when it gets controversial. Could this be the second coming of a player once deemed the savior of Australia’s fly half wos? Or is it a risky gamble for both Gordon and the team? Let’s dive in. After a high-profile switch to the NRL’s Gold Coast Titans, the 24year-old Gordon is back in the rugby fold thanks to Rugby Australia securing his release from the second year of his contract. This isn’t just a transfer. It’s a homecoming for the eight test fly half who last dawned the Wabies jersey during the 2023 World Cup before his sensational code switch. But his NRL journey was short-lived, cut short by a serious spinal injury that delayed his debut until the final round where he played in the centers. Now Gordon could find himself face tof face with Japan on October 25th, reuniting with coach Eddie Jones, whose decision to select him as the Wabies playmaker during their disastrous 2023 World Cup campaign remains a hotly debated topic. And this is the part most people miss. Orton’s return adds another layer of competition to an already crowded fly half scene, especially with Tain Edmund, also included in the 34man squad. Notably absent is 22-year-old Tom Lene, whose omission coach Joe Schmidt described as a long-term strategy to ensure full recovery from concussion and other injuries. Gordon’s move to the Queensland Reds is particularly intriguing. The Reds already boast Lena, Australia Afly half Harry Mclacklin Phillips and Fijian recruit Ben Volivola. So who’s playing 10? Reds and Wabe star Lucan Salakaya Loto cheekily pose this question on social media highlighting the selection headache ahead. Red’s coach Les Kiss however sees Gordon as a versatile asset capable of playing fly half fullback or inside center. But is versatility enough to secure his spot in a team already brimming with talent? For Gordon, a Sunshine Coast native and new father, the decision to stay in Queensland was personal. He chose family and familiarity over lucrative contracts in Europe or Asia. A move that speaks volumes about his priorities. “I’m stoked to return to the game I grew up loving,” Gordon said, expressing his excitement to represent the Queensland Reds, a team he’s long supported. He also thanked the Gold Coast Titans for their support during his 16-month stint, wishing them well for the future. Rugby Australia CEO Phil Wall sees this as a strategic move, giving Gordon a 2-year runway to prove himself ahead of the 2027 World Cup. But here’s the question. Can Gordon reclaim his form and become the player Australia desperately needs? or will he be lost in the shuffle of a highly competitive squad? The Walabes spring tour includes uncapped players like Red’s forward Aiden Ross and scrum half Colani Thomas who will face Japan in Tokyo, England in London, Italy in Udina, Ireland in Dublin, and France in Paris. Overseas stars like Will Skelton, Len Ekatau, and James O’ Connor will join the squad later after the second test. Meanwhile, Dylan Peach returns from a fractured jaw and Andrew Kellaway is back after a calf injury sidelined him during the bloodlow cup tests. Australia A players Matt Fasler, Josh Cannam, Pete Samill, and Hamish Stewart will link up with the Wabes in Tokyo after their match against Japan 15 in Osaka on October 18th. The full squad includes a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, all aiming to make their mark on the international stage. What do you think? Is Carter Gordon’s return a master stroke or a risky bet? Will he rise to the occasion or will the competition prove too fierce? Let us know in the comments. This is one debate we won’t want to
