Quade Cooper links up with Wallabies squad ahead of Bledisloe Cup
After four years in the international wilderness, Quade Cooper is tonight stepping back into the Wallabies fold.
Wide World of Sports can reveal the 70-cap playmaker has been called into camp on the Gold Coast to assist with training.
Given the impediments of COVID-19 and the expected lengthy stay in New Zealand, Cooper will travel across the ditch with Dave Rennie's men later in the week.
Quade Cooper is back in the Test mix. Photo: Andrew Phan/Wallabies media Rugby Australia
Cooper isn't considered to be in the immediate frame for selection, but would be a serious option if more injuries were to be suffered in the backline stocks.
With James O'Connor not due to travel as a result of an ongoing groin issue, Cooper's experience will come in handy tutoring young playmakers such as Noah Lolesio and Hunter Paisami.
Currently back in Brisbane during the off-season of Japan's Top League, the opportunity has come about after Cooper reached out to Rennie to offer assistance with training and mentoring younger players.
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Quade Cooper is back in the Wallabies fold. Getty
Very few rugby pundits could doubt the 33-year-old's ability, but his application has often been questioned, and making sure he is a good cultural fit with the current Wallabies squad is paramount.
It's understood after catching up during the week that Rennie has been impressed with Cooper's eagerness to help out and his passion for the jersey.
Australia's Quade Cooper and New Zealand's Brad Thorn grab each other by the throat at Eden Park. Getty
The Australian coaching staff will assess all aspects of Cooper's integration with the squad this week.
Brumbies hooker Folau Fainga'a is another player who has been drafted in as potential injury cover.
