Wallabies consider options as Jorgensen eyes fullback role

The Wallabies face a critical gap at fullback after Tom Wright suffered an ACL injury in their loss to South Africa, ruling him out for the remainder of the Rugby Championship.

Max Jorgensen, celebrating his 21st birthday in Townsville, has quietly offered himself as a replacement.

Jorgensen, already with 13 Test caps under his belt, acknowledged his relative inexperience but emphasized his readiness.

‘‘It feels like I was at school yesterday ... but I’ve loved every minute,” he reflected.

Having played fullback at club level for the Waratahs, the winger said: "I love playing 15, but I've been loving playing on the wing as well - I'm happy in either position, as long as I'm playing and in the team and doing my part."

Coach Joe Schmidt will consider other options too, such as Andrew Kellaway—who covered fullback in the South Africa game—or moving Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii from the centres. Jorgensen stressed team-first mindset.

"I've played my fair share of fullback at clubland, at the 'Tahs. ... but there's a lot of boys in the squad who can play fullback," said Jorgensen.

"There's Kells, who played pretty much the whole game against South Africa at fullback, you've got a lot of other players like (Harry Potter).

"Ultimately, it's up to the coaches and Joe so we'll see what happens."

Jorgensen has delivered standout moments, including tries against the British & Irish Lions and Springboks. He believes the team has matured since their heavy loss to Argentina last year and now plays stronger through all 80 minutes.

The absence of Wright places urgent pressure on the backline ahead of this Saturday's clash with Argentina. Still, with squad depth and adaptability, the Wallabies hope to show continued growth.

Australia are at second place in the Rugby Championship table with a solitary win from two matches.