Super Rugby’s youngest-ever debutant, James O’Connor, has become somewhat of the forgotten man in Australian Rugby.
A Veteran of 64 test matches, the now 34-year-old utility back is one of rugby’s great what ifs having made his debut back in 2008, many would’ve expected O’Connor to be pushing towards the top of the all-time international caps record.
Yet, having followed more of a winding path throughout his career with a sabbatical to European Rugby with stops at London Irish, Toulon and later Sale Sharks, O’Connor would enter the international wilderness for the best part of six years between 2013 and 2019.
This absence would be snapped when he was selected by former Wallabies boss Michael Cheika for the Wallabies 2019 Rugby World Cup squad. Earning his 50th cap at the tournament, O’Connor appeared to be back in the framework for long term success with the national set-up.
Fast forward five years, and O’Connor has earned another 14 test caps during that period despite enjoying a strong run of form with Super Rugby side the Queensland Reds.
As Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies claimed their first victory of the 2024 Rugby Championship in La Plata, Argentina, O’Connor was sealing a major victory for his club side, Brothers RFC, as they defended their Hospital Cup title.
Just minutes after missing a crucial conversion, O’Connor had the opportunity to put his side ahead with 45 seconds left on the clock.
Stepping up, the former Reds captain drilled the shot to set up a grandstand finish for his side, which they duly closed out in spectacular fashion.
Wild scenes as former Wallaby James O’Connor slots a last-minute penalty to secure back-to-back premierships for @BrothersRC 😲 🏆 pic.twitter.com/pPYfjQYDmS
— RUGBYcomau (@rugbycomau) September 3, 2024
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