England rugby icon playing huge role to help Australia win at Twickenham

Australia is receiving assistance from a well-known figure

 

Geoff Parling, the former England lock who experienced heartbreak at Twickenham when Australia beat England in the World Cup, is now back in familiar surroundings—but this time as a coach for the Wallabies. If history repeats itself and England face another defeat at home, Parling might be smiling.

 

 

The Wallabies have not won in southwest London since their victory over England in the 2015 World Cup, and their form has dropped since then. Last year, they suffered a shock early exit from the World Cup pool stages. However, Parling has returned to help the team turn things around under coach Joe Schmidt.

 

 

 

After ending his playing career in Melbourne, Parling chose to stay in Australia and pursue coaching. While his current tour of the Northern Hemisphere allows him to reconnect with family and friends, Parling is focused on the job ahead. “It’s great to be back, but I’m here to do a job,” he said. “If we don’t perform, I won’t be feeling too good about it.”

 

 

With coaching experience from top clubs like Leicester and Exeter, Parling is well-positioned to help guide the Wallabies in their future goals, including the upcoming Lions Tour and the 2027 World Cup. He knows the team needs to work hard to be competitive. “We have to keep building and getting the team in shape for next year’s Lions tour and the World Cup,” he said.

 

 

 

Since their 2015 World Cup loss, England have dominated Australia, winning 10 out of their last 11 matches. Despite setbacks, including a heavy loss to Argentina, Parling remains hopeful. The Wallabies have some rising stars, like rugby league convert Joseph Sua’ali’i, who is impressing with his athleticism. Parling spoke highly of the young player, saying, “He’s been incredible. He’s used to big games, and I’ve been really impressed with how he’s settled in.”

 

 

 

Parling also sees plenty of potential in Australian athletes, noting their natural athleticism, possibly due to the country’s outdoor lifestyle. His task now is to bring all this talent together as a cohesive team. “My job is simple: can I make that player better?” he said.

 

The first test of his coaching success will come on Saturday, when the Wallabies take the field.