Wallabies halfback Jake Gordon has admitted he’s satisfied with the process behind his release request from Rugby Australia being denied after the Wallabies kicked off their campaign in the best possible way, defeating Wales 25-16.
Two months prior to the Wallabies match, Gordon tried to end his contract with RA and the Waratahs and take up an opportunity in France.
If he had been given permission, it’s unlikely coach Joe Schmidt would’ve picked him considering no overseas-based players were selected in his squad.
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After his best on ground performance at Allianz Stadium, Gordon was asked on Monday whether he was happy that release was ultimately denied.
Andrew Kellaway and Jake Gordon after the Wallabies win. Getty
“Ah, yes, definitely,” he responded awkwardly.
“That’s sort of happened now but look I think when you get opportunities like this (it’s rewarding) and we’ve got a really exciting twelve months ahead of us, it feels pretty good.”
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Gordon formed a new look combination with flyhalf Noah Lolesio on Saturday night, having been selected ahead of Tate McDermott and Nic White.
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Whether that combination is kept the same for the second match against Wales at AAMI Park on Saturday remains to be seen, with Schmidt keeping his players in the dark.
“One thing with Joe is he doesn’t give too much away,” Gordon said.
“The first week he had us picking our own teams at one point. I’d love to play again and play with Noah but that’s out of my control.
“I’m not too sure what he’s going to do there.”